Stephanie Iken, Attorney at Law

Many musicians assume insurance is something only venues, festivals, or large tours deal with. In reality, musicians face risks that insurance can help manage, even at the local and DIY level.

Whether insurance makes sense depends on how often you perform, where you play, and what you bring with you.

Why Insurance Comes Up for Musicians

Insurance usually becomes relevant after something goes wrong:

• Someone trips over a cable
• A speaker falls
• An instrument is damaged or stolen
• A show is canceled
• A venue asks for proof of coverage

At that point, options are limited. Planning ahead gives musicians more control.

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance is the most common coverage musicians consider.

It can help cover:

• Injuries to audience members
• Damage to venue property
• Claims that your equipment created a hazard

Some venues and festivals require proof of liability insurance before allowing bands to perform. Others do not, but that does not eliminate risk.

Liability coverage does not mean you expect something to happen. It means you are prepared if it does.

Equipment and Instrument Insurance

Gear is expensive and often essential to your work.

Equipment insurance can cover:

• Theft
• Damage during transport
• Damage at shows or rehearsals
• Loss due to fire or weather

Homeowner or renter policies may not fully cover professional use or off-premises loss. Musicians often assume they are covered until they are not.

Touring and Travel Coverage

For musicians who travel, additional coverage may be relevant:

• Gear protection during transit
• Coverage for lost or delayed equipment
• Event cancellation coverage
• Liability across multiple locations

Touring introduces more variables and more exposure.

When Insurance Is More Likely to Make Sense

Insurance tends to be more useful when:

• You perform regularly
• You bring significant equipment
• You play in public or crowded spaces
• Venues request certificates of insurance
• You tour or travel with gear
• You operate as a band or business entity

Occasional performers may decide the cost outweighs the risk. Regular performers often decide the opposite.

What Insurance Does Not Replace

Insurance does not replace:

• Clear agreements
• Safe setup practices
• Communication with venues
• Common sense

Coverage helps manage consequences. It does not prevent incidents.

Common Misunderstandings

• Insurance is only for big bands
• Venues always cover performers
• Home insurance covers gigging gear
• Waivers eliminate liability
• Accidents only happen to careless people

None of these assumptions hold up consistently.

How Musicians Should Approach Insurance

Before purchasing coverage:

• Identify your biggest risks
• Ask venues what they require
• Review existing policies
• Compare coverage limits and exclusions
• Confirm whether professional use is covered

Insurance should match how you actually perform, not how you wish you performed.

Disclaimer
This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Coverage needs and policy terms vary based on specific facts, activities, and providers. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Musicians should consult a qualified insurance professional or attorney to evaluate coverage options appropriate for their situation.