Clarion insures both Chamber Music America and the Violin Society of America, while Merz-Huber covers the American String Teachers Association and the American Suzuki Association. Both amateurs and professionals are eligible for the low rates offered through these groups. If you violate the distinction, however, the company may legally refuse to pay your claim. If you play a wedding and damage or lose your instrument, you are not covered. Atlantic Insurance, Chubb, Fireman's Fund, and St. Paul are the ones most often mentioned by knowledgeable brokers.
Some players have their insurance paid in part or fully by their union or by their orchestra.
That may seem high, but it is designed especially for professionals and may cover players who are not eligible for other options. For example, Feldman points out that many musicians with insured instruments hardly think twice about loaning their instruments to other players, especially to students. While practicing at home, the student takes a short break. He runs to pick up his mail and leaves the door ajar. A prowler slips in and exits with the fiddle.