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If there is one thing that has become clear about this government it is that it loves cutting red tape and in the
hospitality industry it is no different.
With this in mind the Department for Culture, Media and Sport is deregulating live musical performances in pubs, bars, clubs and just about wherever else you choose to mention. When the Live Music Act 2012 is implemented licensed premises will be able to hold performances between 8am and 11pm no problem at all.
The department is to release guidance on the changes so that everyone in the industry knows exactly what is covered and what isn't. For example, unamplified music can be played in a beer garden irrespective of whether it is included in the premise's licence until 11pm. Amplified music is only exempt from further
licensing when it is on the premises licence, however, highlighting the idiosyncrasies of the new legislation.
So what does this mean for bars and pubs that are thinking about hosting live music?
Well it will make it easier for one thing. Deregulation means less bureaucracy making it much more straightforward for venues to diversify and try out putting on acts. Without having to apply for a licence, establishments can see if live music suits their venue and what feedback they get from customers.
This sort of trial and error can lead to a new lease of life for some pubs, which may find that they attract more custom by putting on live bands. It is important to take the pub's vibe into consideration and ask what it is that the customers want as if it is a quiet pint then maybe live music won't go down so well. Some pubs have music on Friday and Saturday nights, which can be very popular, but since these nights can often see places ram packed it is a good idea to consider how much space a band would take up.
If it is a small pub then this may mean that there is less capacity for punters and therefore it is counter-productive. There is plenty of time to have a think about these things as the Act is not due to come into effect until October, having been given royal assent in March.
