When Does Music Instrument Coverage Take Effect?

Most musical instruments are usually exquisite. Take the piano or the viola. Each of these instruments is highly delicate and expensive. Any person who purchases any musical instrument certainly doesn’t want their instrument to be damaged or cause any loss to them. Thus, an instrument coverage insurance policy would make them feel safe to use their instruments freely. The policies usually cover the perils of theft, fire, accidents, and physical damage to the instrument. However, all the policies are subjected to some terms and conditions which exclude some specific unforeseen events in which the insurance policy does not take effect.

You cannot claim insurance funds for a loss that has already taken place. Getting insurance for your musical instrument beforehand would be best to cover the incurred losses. A musical instrument insurance takes effect only when any loss complying with the policies of the coverage document occurs. It usually includes the loss due to accident, burglary, or fire but cases of mishandling are not included in the terms and conditions of the coverage policy.

 

Newly Acquired Instrument Policy

The insurance covers recently acquired instruments up to the value of 50,000. The purchase of the new musical instrument has to be accounted for. This is particularly important to get the instrument insured. Newly possessed instruments are often insured quickly and do not require hassle.

Borrowed Instrument Policy

Borrowed musical instruments also can be insured with ease. This often requires informing about the obtained instrument within 48 hours of possession of the same. The instrument coverage up to the highest-valued item on the policy generally has free coverage for the first 30 days.

Replacement Insurance Policy

If the instrument that has gone through a covered loss is being repaired, then automatic insurance content for a relief instrument is provided. This content limit is over the value of the instrument being repaired. Hence, it makes it very efficient in such times of loss.

Partial Loss Damage Policy

If only some part of the instrument is damaged, the policyholder can hold on to some undamaged part if they desire. In such events, the value of the undamaged part kept would be deducted, and the rest of the insured value can be claimed. Therefore, the undamaged part does not have to be purchased again. This saves the person a lot of money in the case of instruments with lots of accessories like the piano.

Inflation Guard Policy

The Inflation Guard protects the policyholder against rising costs that are beyond the control of anyone. Only instruments that are manufactured within two years can earn this insurance coverage. An amount more than what the instrument is insured for can be collected if the instrument is insured for an amount within two years of the price increase.

Repurchase Policy

In this clause, the policyholder can claim the entire amount of the musical instrument to repurchase it. This holds effect in case of fraud while selling the product or when the instrument is damaged entirely within the stipulated period of the policy mentioned in the document.

Business Interruption Policy

This clause provides for the financial losses that the artist incurs due to the damage to the instrument. A professional artist dependent on any instrument for livelihood can avail of this insurance policy. It would provide coverage for an estimated value of the entire assumed business that the artist claims to have done in the given time during which the instrument got damaged or stolen.

Conclusion

There are various ways to get coverage for your musical instrument. It is a necessity for any musician, whether a beginner or a professional, to get their instruments insured for safety and to have less worry about their display of art. Various insurance plans are designed for these purposes. You can choose the right plan based on your requirements and needs. So don’t wait and get your instrument covered at the earliest!

Why is the Viola a Popular Musical Instrument?

The viola is the oldest of the present day’s main stringed instruments, pre-existing the cello, violin, and string bass. Viola, analogous to the violin, is a stringed musical instrument having lower and deeper sounds and therefore, is the alto voice of the violin family. It is to be noted that the viola is a very delicate but exquisite instrument therefore its safety must be ensured with viola insurance.

Originating in northern Italy between the years 1530 and 1550, the viola initially was viola da braccio which translates to the viola played in the arms. It mainly emerged after the instrument Soprano gained popularity in the mid-1500s.

Why is Viola so lovable?

Violas are in between violins and cellos in both size and tune. It has the alto voice between the violin being tuned to a perfect fifth above and the cello having a tuned octave below. Thus, it is the ideal instrument for those with not so high a range as violins.

Violas are rather unique in the sense very few people start by playing the viola.

Music of viola, violin, and cello can be played by a violist leading to more efficiency in music theory. The viola maintains the same string notes as the cello, but an octave higher, so music that is written for the cello can be easily arranged for the alto clef without any changes in key. Learning different clefs is also beneficial for a musician.

Playing viola leads to proficiency in different genres of music as violists can perform a wide variety of instruments’ music.

Playing the harmony is rather effortless than playing the melody, making the viola a perfect choice for beginners. 

 

How Viola Differ from Violin?

Viola and violins, though similar in appearance, have significant differences that make them stand apart.

Size

The viola is slightly larger than the violin. Although the size of the viola is set, it usually ranges from 38cm to 43cm. A full-size violin has a 35.5cm long body. The bow of the violins is, however, somewhat longer than that of the viola.

Strings

Though both violins and violas are four-stringed instruments, the notes of each string differ. The viola string order from lowest to highest is C, G, D, A. Violin strings, on the other hand, go from G, D, A to E.

The viola has thicker strings and is tuned to be one-fifth lower than the violin leading to a lower range.

Sound

Violins are the highest-pitched instruments in the string family seconded by violas. A viola produces a deeper, mellow, and slower sound than violin because of its thicker strings.

Clef

One of the main contrasts between the violin and the viola is the clef that each instrument uses. Music for the viola is written in an alto clef, which uses the C clef. The viola is the only instrument to use the alto clef whereas the violin uses the treble clef.

Bow frog

The viola bows are a bit heavier, with curved frogs (end of the bow) than violin bows which are generally straight-edged. The viola bow also has a wider band of horsehair.

Techniques

The techniques used in playing viola and violin are different due to their sizes and tunes. The fingering is quite different as the viola has heavier strings which require more intense weight application to vibrate them.  However, both of them have the same manner of holding.

Use

The sound of violins is carried above another instrument hence, they are used to play the melody lines. They can also be used to harmonize whereas violas are mostly used to fill in harmonies.  Violas are more popular in folk music and violins in jazz music.

How to keep your Viola safe?

Violas are delicate musical instruments requiring care and maintenance. Restringing every 3 to 6 months, distancing polish and fingers from bow hair, and using humidifiers to avoid cracks to keep it safe are some ways to ensure the longevity of a viola. However, having viola insurance is the key to its long-time safety.
 
Conclusion

Viola can be thought of as an instrument that has seen the journey of evolution rather than being instantaneously invented. Due to the intrinsic property of the timbre, the viola has a melancholic and richer tone than the violin. Viola belongs to an extremely sophisticated and exquisite range of instruments; thus, it is recommended that professionals get their viola insured to ensure the safety of their viola. It has an undeniable contribution to the world of music though it was initially highly overlooked.

What Guitar Instrument Must a Beginner Choose?

As a beginner, choosing your first guitar can be overwhelming. There are various options, but they should inspire you to unwind in your creative outlet.

Buying a new guitar strikes a few common questions, like whether to choose acoustic or electrical, what should be the best size, what features are essential, and what additional accessories are required. "Can I have guitar insurance?" is also a very valid question.

Here, we will discuss these questions and help you choose the perfect guitar!

Acoustic or Electrical?

For beginners, guitars are categorized into Electrical, Acoustic, and Classical.

•    The most popular type of guitar has to be acoustic. It comes with a hollow body to amplify the sound of the strings without the need for electrical amplification. However, they can be amplified with a removable pickup if needed. They are cost-effective as there is no need for external amplification, and they have a rich tune. Acoustic guitars are primarily used in jazz, country folk, and blues.

•    Electric guitars are the easiest to learn as they come with thinner necks though they produce faint sounds. So, they need an external amplifier to enrich the sound quality. These are the most versatile guitars opening a world of potential for various sounds. Electric guitars are primarily used in metal, rock, and blues.

 

 
•    Classical guitars, also popularly called Spanish guitars, are the most cost-effective ones. They come with softer nylon stings on the hands, particularly making them beneficial for beginners. It certainly does not need any external amplification. They are primarily used in folk or flamenco and other classical styles.

•    Semi-acoustic guitars combine the merits of both acoustic and electric guitars. They can come with an in-built microphone for increasing the volume of sound produced and an onboard equalizer for tonal control.

On a general note, electric guitars are most preferred for beginners, though they need additional equipment, as they are very simple to learn.

What is the best size?

The size of the guitar matters to a great extent for aspiring practitioners. The instrument should fit properly within the arms of the user, i.e., they should have proper reach across the length of the guitar.

The string length, the length of the string from nut to saddle, or the part of the string that vibrates, should range from 24.5 to 25.5 inches, but the user's age matters as shorter people would find it easier to handle smaller guitars.

The incorrect length of the guitar makes it difficult for the person to play and affects the ability of the person. The neck's width, frets' spacing, and guitar weight must also be considered while buying a guitar.

Essential Features:

•    Thinner neck
•    Low action, i.e., a distance of string to the neck, but not low enough to create unwanted sounds
•    There should not be too many harmonic overtones
•    For electric guitar, you must pay heed to the quality of the pickup
•    Thin strings and narrow necks help with play-ability
•    Take note of the quality of soldering work and components used, like bridges

Additional accessories:

•    The amplifier is only necessary for electric guitars but not for the other two. Practice amps are recommended for beginners.
•    Cable used in electric guitar must be long enough to connect it to the amplifier.
•    The tuner is necessary for any guitar, and head-stock tuners are mostly recommended.

Insurance for Musician

Accidents may happen, but musical instrument insurance can be availed to prepare for the worst-case scenario. The coverage of the policies generally includes theft, fire, and other causes of loss. Your valuable instrument can be protected by the right guitar insurance policy that provides the best coverage for your inventory.

Bottom line

As we have said earlier, getting a guitar can be overwhelming if you are new. And before getting one for you, you must research well. After all, you will not want to waste money on something not ideal. We hope this article helps you in getting your ideal guitar.

Violin Insurance: Why Should You Insure Your Musical Instrument?

The violin is an instrument that is loved by many. Being a part of the orchestra's history, violins are intensely romantic, and a violinist, unlike other musicians with any other musical instrument, can touch your soul.

Musical instruments are emotions to the artist. And we can understand what you will feel if something happens to your favorite violin. So how can you protect it? Well, we are not asking you to lock it away or something to save it. All you can do is get your instrument insured.

Yes, you heard us right!

Why Should You Be Insecure About Your Musical Instrument?

In the family of string instruments, violins are quite expensive. The delicate construction of the violin can produce utterly heavenly sounds. Even violins for budding artists are also quite expensive. So, it’s better to insure your violin.

People still need to be made aware that getting insurance for your musical instrument is fruitful in the future. You can be relieved about your valuable investment.  By any chance, if you get your violin damaged, you do not have to pay any heavy cost by insuring it.

If you are still wondering why you should get insurance for your violin, then let us explain:

 

Protection Against all Sorts of Accidents

Accidents can still occur no matter how cautious you are, how well you store your violin in its case, or how hard you work to avoid them. One of the best benefits of musical instrument insurance is that you do not have to pay for a replacement if by any chance you get your violin damaged.

You could even be able to add repair coverage, depending on the insurance provider you use. For instance, some expensive repairs, such as those that necessitate replacing your instrument's numerous parts, may be covered by your coverage.

Whether you use your violin insurance coverage or pay for repairs out of cash depends on the deductible amount.

Peace of Mind

Despite being carefully cured, the wood used in making a violin is nevertheless very vulnerable to fluctuations in the temperature and humidity of the environment. If your violin is exposed to extremely hot, cold, or dry air, catastrophic damage can happen in a concise amount of time. You risk seriously damaging your violin if you don't properly store it.

There are times when events take place that is beyond your control. Your violin may react unfavorably in volatile temperatures. You'll have to replace it because you won't be able to play it, which happens especially with costly violin owners. Those expensive beauties need meticulous upkeep to maintain their play-ability and tone.

By getting your violin insured, you can relax. You do not have to worry about any kind of emergency.
 
Secure your Investment

A lot of sophisticated violins cost a lot of money. Considering that you might pay the same amount for a used car, investing in violin insurance is wise if you want to safeguard the money you've spent on your priceless instrument.

Especially if you rent your violin, this is crucial. Although the rental fees are quite reasonable, you are still liable for the full cost of any repairs or replacements if the instrument is damaged. Although insuring the instrument may seem unnecessary, it is entirely justified if a rented instrument is harmed.

Bottom line

Many people are not quite concerned about the insurance requirements, but for an artist who owns an expensive musical instrument, getting violin insurance is a must for them.
 
Now the challenging part will be getting the ideal insurance provider. But what to worry about? You need to research a bit. With a few clicks, you can get your perfect insurance provider. So, what are you waiting for? Get your violin protected and play it without any worries.

What are the Best Parts of a Music Studio?

Music is an important part of life and it not only provides proper pleasure to the person and calms the mind it is also an important aspect that can help a person to live carefreely. Listening to music and playing an instrument is a part of human life that can give immense satisfaction and maintain an inspiration to live a better life. The insurance protection thus provides a safe haven for musicians to insure their space and instruments which can create better opportunities for their careers.

The musicians in today’s generation must understand the importance of music studios. The musicians try to make new prospects through the lucrative endeavor of working with the public and not taking risks. Music studios should represent the artist’s musical creative aura and energy. There have been several ways a musician can choose to protect his instruments and the studio to maintain a career without hindrance through implementing insurance prospects. Clarion Associates. Inc is the most trusted and most important insurance company in the USA that can help the new generation of musicians to have full control of their creative space. There have been several ways an artist can make sure of protecting the recording studio through music studio insurance and can also make the instruments insured to make a fool proof plan for extending the life of the studio and also ensuring better prospects for the singing career.

 

A musician or an artist is very possessive about their musical instruments. It has been said that Elvis Presley was very affectionate about his favorite guitar and it found a special space in his heart and we come to identify Presly with the guitar. His collection of guitars is a prized possession and has been secured properly. Like Elvis, every artist feels a special bond with their musical instruments an artist is always more attentive to the place where he creates his magical musical notes and maintains a surreal appearance.

Musicians prefer decorating the music studio with new-age technology and with the best in business software. It provides musicians with the coveted attention they need to maintain overall efficiency in their work. The music studios are not mere recording studios. It has studio equipment, along with recording facilities.

At-home Recording Studios

There can be home studios where mainly a musician builds his studio along with his home or apartment. It gives the musician the freedom to explore the music at any time and it has very basic to complex aspects of recording and music software. The music studios use an audio interface that helps the sound to mix with the different tunes through headphones and monitors. The music studio insurance provides coverage of different aspects of the studios that can help build the purpose and maintain studio energy. The new age musicians try to build the music studio according to their needs and space as it can need to match their musical energy.

Workspace Studios

Many musicians prefer building their music studio away from their homes in other spaces mainly due to scarcity of space or due to maintaining a serious work environment. The location plays an important role in the case of the music studio. The specific sound and acoustics cannot be possibly made in the house. Whereas the recording studio away from the house can only focus on the music and sound.

The best part of the music studio is the style and experience that is needed to mix the overall music in the recording which helps the song to become catchier. Hiring a sound engineer for the recording can be a better option that can provide a better prospect for the music studio. The music studio manufactures sounds and acoustics to suit different genres of music and the musicians and technicians work to create credibility in the professional industry. The reputation of the music studio depends upon the budget and the way it manages its work and its overall processes.

Significance of Heritage Instrument Insurance - Get the Facts

Heritage or vintage musical instruments are among the most prized possessions for a musician or collector. They cherish it for a lifetime and can go to any length to protect their assets from the effects of external elements.

Probably, you also own a heritage guitar, flute, saxophone, or any other vintage gear and want to protect it in the best possible way. Right? Well! That's understandable and praiseworthy.

So, how do you go about it? You may say that you clean it and take it for regular service, maintenance, and repairs to ensure its safety. Dear reader! Yes, all these things are crucial for musical instruments' safety. However, what if we tell you that there's more than just the regular chores?

You guessed it right – Heritage Instrument Insurance to safeguard your musical inheritance. So, how does a musical instrument insurance policy take care of your vintage gear?

This blog will help you clear all your ifs and buts related to your musical companion. However, before delving deeper into the topic, let's find out - what makes heritage musical instruments enviable? Read on!

 

What features make older musical instruments sought-after?

People love vintage musical instruments for their unique appearance, historical and cultural significance, and tonal quality. Moreover, you may have often heard people saying that older musical instruments produce a better sound. Do you know why? Here are the possible reasons:

•    One of the main possibilities is - age-old luthiers or other instrument makers used better-quality raw materials. An example for you! Vintage saxophones were crafted using heavier brass. And wooden musical gears mature with time while producing better sound. In simple words, time seasons musical instruments to the best of their capabilities.

•    The second possibility is - the approach to manufacturing musical gears - strings or woodwind - in older days was different. They were made in smaller lots with negligible automation involved, thus producing the finest products made with devotion.

•    Thirdly, as they are old and vintage, or maybe you have received them as an heirloom, you tend to take care of them carefully.

So, all these things add a desirable charm to vintage musical gear. Therefore, it is imperative for all musical instrument owners to provide all-encompassing coverage in the form of a Heritage Instrument Insurance plan.

Now, let us move to the question-answer session involving musical instrument insurance.

What is the purpose of getting a musical instrument insurance plan?

As a musical instrument insurance policyholder, you will get financial protection against accidental damages, theft, or damage to your gear. It extends insurance coverage for the replacement cost or repairs (if needed) of your instruments. Moreover, the extent of coverage you will receive relies on the invoice value of your gear.

What if someone else or their property is damaged due to your musical gear?

Third-party liability cover is one of the best things associated with comprehensive musical instrument insurance plans. It covers you financially if a third party is injured or their property suffers damage due to your gear. It takes care of the legal and medical affairs without having you stress your mind.

Will your homeowner's insurance policy cover your heritage musical instruments?

It is a million-dollar question. Well! The answer is - Yes. But there is a catch. Although home insurance plans cover musical gear as belongings, there are several caps. Firstly, you are less likely to get complete coverage. Secondly, it will not protect your musical gear outside your home. These two ceilings may lead to incomplete coverage. Therefore, it is always a wise idea to buy a separate insurance plan for your musical instruments.

How much does Heritage Insurance cost?

The cost of a comprehensive insurance plan for vintage musical instruments is likely to vary from one insurance provider to another, depending on several factors. These include the following:

•    The extent of coverage
•    The declared value of your gear
•    Your location
•    Number of instruments you wish to insure
•    If you use it professionally or as a hobby

These are some of the most frequently asked questions about musical instrument insurance plans. Hopefully, they will help you get a better insight into insurance plans for musical instruments and be an informed buyer.

Guidelines for Protecting Your Cello from Getting Robbed

The four-stringed Cello is considered the most delightful-sounding instrument of the violin family. It is relatively more costly than other string instruments, so there is no denying when you purchase it, you spend a significant amount and likewise put your attention into protecting it from unforeseen circumstances.

As an instrument owner, you should be extremely cautious, especially while you are out of your premises with your valuable instruments. In case of any accident happens during transit, your homeowner insurance will be futile. In this context, only standalone Cello Insurance is the only component that protects you from financial losses if any damage occurs to your gear while traveling.

Chances of theft are more while you travel by car or a public vehicle or while you load or unload all the valuable equipment at a parking lot or less crowded area. However, by taking precautions, you can avoid or minimize the possibility of getting your string instrument stolen or lost.

•    Keep your instruments anonymous - It’s better not to stick any tag bearing your company name or band or mention any number on the surface of the musical equipment. The best way to safeguard your gear from being stolen is to keep them anonymous to avoid getting targeted by thieves.

•    Installing an alarm is a mandate - Don’t miss installing an alarm in the cab or your equipment-loaded vehicle, especially if you frequently travel. In case of theft, you would be alerted and can take the necessary action.

•    Use tinted glass in your car - To prevent theft, use tinted window glass or blinds so that your valuable musical instruments kept in the vehicle won’t be visible from outside. Also, it is a great way to minimize the risks of theft.

 

•    In your absence, keep the vehicle locked - When you are not around your automobile, it’s always better to keep it locked condition and safeguard it from theft or robbery.

•    Get all the instruments chained together - While traveling with your musical equipment, it is better to get them tied with a chain so as to avoid the risk of theft.

•    Park your car in a safe place - Never Park your vehicle in an empty parking area or any dark place where the chances of robbery are high. Also, avoid leaving your car stacked with expensive equipment overnight.

•    Keep your storeroom locked at all times - The room you store all your valuable gear should be kept under lock and key when you are out of the premises. It’s better to use a deadbolt lock for better protection.

•    Carry your instruments in a sturdy case while traveling - It’s advisable to carry your music instruments in a good quality sturdy case in locked condition while traveling.

•    Safeguard your Cello instrument with standalone musical insurance - Despite taking all possible precautions, accidents happen and can result in an unbearable loss. Especially while you travel, there is a high chance your beloved string instrument can get stolen or lost. Once it’s lost, buying another identical piece of equipment or repairing the same requires a massive investment. In such a scenario, your profession might be at stake as your income gets hampered. To avoid such situations, taking standalone Cello Insurance is the wisest decision to get free from financial hazards.

Why Choosing the Right Insurance is a Key to a Successful Music Career?

As a professional music player choosing the right policy is crucial. By mistake, if you choose the wrong insurance plan, your professional career could be at stake. If you travel with your musical equipment and lose your valuable gear during transit, your homeowner insurance will not cover the loss. The household policy only covers the loss when the accident happens at the insured premises. Once you are out, the homeowner policy will be futile.

Whether you are at your recording studio or attending a concert, if insured with dedicated Cello Insurance, you can rest assured of adequate coverage if any damage happens to your gear.

Conclusion

Taking necessary precautions, following safety measures, and opting for specified musical instrument insurance is the key to building a successful music career.