The Licensing Act 2003 which will have come into force by November 2005 following a transition period requires venues that wish to provide live music to obtain a premises licence that allows the provision of live music. The old exclusion for small bands - coined the "two in a bar" rule - no longer applies and putting on any amplified music now requires the relevant premises licence to have been obtained.

Most venues should be well aware of the legal position, but it's always worth checking that the appropriate premises licence is held by the venue. More information about this can be found on the Musicians' Union website. Debbie Fox-Little is a member of the MU.

If you are holding a one-off event in your home or a marquee in your garden there's no requirement to obtain a licence, just let your neighbours know in advance!