I won a position with a major symphony orchestra. I assumed the orchestra’s insurance covered my bass while it was stored in the hall lockers. The locker room flooded. My bass was ruined. The orchestra management said, “Our insurance covers our timpani and harp. It does not cover your personal property.”
Key Takeaways
- Orchestra Insurance is for Orchestra Property: The symphony’s policy covers the assets owned by the non-profit. It rarely extends to the musicians’ personal instruments unless specifically negotiated (rare).
- AFM (Union) Benefits: The American Federation of Musicians (AFM) offers access to insurance (Mercer), but it is not automatic. You have to buy it.
- “Premises Liability” vs. “Property”: If the flood was due to the Symphony’s negligence (they ignored a leaky pipe), you could sue their Liability insurance. But their Property insurance won’t pay you directly.
- Touring Coverage: Even if they cover you in the hall (rare), they definitely don’t cover you while you practice at home. You need your own policy.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Employment Assumption.”
Employees assume the employer protects their tools.
In the music world, musicians are often independent contractors or employees who provide their own tools.
The “Care, Custody, and Control” clause in the Symphony’s policy usually excludes “Personal effects of employees.”
The Investigation (My Analysis of Contracts)
I checked the CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) logic.
The Standard Symphony Contract
- Clause: “Musicians are responsible for insuring their own instruments.”
- Exception: Some top-tier orchestras (NY Phil, CSO) might provide “block” coverage for instruments while on tour with the orchestra, but not while at home.
AFM Insurance (Mercer)
- The Product: A solid policy for union members.
- The Rate: Competitive. ~$180 min premium.
- The Benefit: Tailored for orchestral players.
[IMAGE: Photo of an orchestra locker room with instrument cases stacked on shelves]
Comparison Table
| Scenario | Symphony Policy | Your Personal Policy |
| Stored in Hall Locker | No (Usually) | Yes |
| Damage during Tour | Maybe (Check CBA) | Yes |
| Stolen from Home | No | Yes |
| Damage on Stage | No | Yes |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Read the CBA: Check your contract. Search for “Insurance.”
- Don’t Cancel Your Personal Policy: Even if the orchestra offers some coverage, it likely has gaps (like practice at home). Keep your Clarion/Heritage policy.
- Inspect the Locker: Is it near a pipe? Is it secure? If not, don’t leave your instrument there.
- Register with the Stage Manager: Sometimes, providing your serial number to management helps if they do have a rider for employee instruments.
FAQ
Does the union pay for my insurance?
No. They provide access to a group rate, but you pay the bill.
What if a stagehand drops my bass?
The Symphony is liable (vicarious liability for employee). Their Liability insurance should pay.
Is my tux/tails covered?
Under your home/renters policy (Clothing), yes. Not under instrument insurance.