Industry news & advice blog

This blog is contributed by Allianz Musical Insurance, the UK’s No. 1 musical instrument insurer.

In the lead up to Christmas and with the New Year on the horizon, here’s a few things to think about to get you prepared for 2021 and getting back to playing.

As we head into winter the temperatures are dropping and musicians are having to perform more outside during these difficult times. We’ve created some tips and advice to help you prepare for performing in the cold, so you can protect yourself and your instrument.


Let your instruments acclimatise 
Sudden changes in temperature can damage your instrument and remember never leave your instruments in the car for long periods or overnight.


Take extra care when cleaning 
This should already be part of your routine, but it’s extra important in cooler weather to keep your instrument clean and dry.


Keep your eyes (and ears!) on your prized possession 
If you notice your instrument sounding different, not staying in tune, cracking, or otherwise not feeling quite right, don’t hesitate to take it to a repair technician.


Dress appropriately 
Wear layers (maybe even thermal ones) and consider wearing fingerless gloves if possible.


Leave enough time for tuning 
Temperature can play havoc with your instrument; carefully make sure you spend time getting it in tune.


Look after yourself 
Keep your set to a minimum if possible, have regular breaks and try to warm up in between sets or in the interval.


With many musicians beginning to think about playing live again, it’s exciting to think about getting back into gigs and tours, whether that’s around the UK or across the world. We know that many musicians will be wondering how Brexit will affect them and their careers. You can find out more about what support and guidance is available to you here.


Brexit Guidance 

Musicians Union
ISM
UK Music

If you’ve got insurance with Allianz Musical Insurance, your cover (including Worldwide cover) will continue as normal, even if we leave the EU with no deal.

Here’s some of our advice to get you prepared:


* Check the values for which your instruments and equipment are currently insured and update them if needed. We don’t want you to be under-insured if you need to make a claim.

* If you need to buy a replacement item from outside the UK, or if your item would need be imported from outside the UK by the supplier, there is a chance that your sum insured may need to increase, due to recent currency fluctuation.

* When travelling outside of the UK for gigs and tours make sure your insurance includes worldwide cover, to keep your instrument and equipment protected no matter where you are.


If you have any concerns or questions about your cover, please give us a call on 0330 100 9903 or email us [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help.


Get 2 months free musical insurance*
Allianz Musical Insurance are committed to supporting UK musicians during this time. That’s why we’re giving all new customers 2 months free musical instrument insurance when you buy a yearly policy online!* 

Get a quote!

Terms and conditions apply. *2 months free only applicable when you buy a policy online. For the first year you will only make 10 payments. Subject to our minimum premium and not valid in conjunction with other offers.