Preparing for your gig: keeping your instrument protected before, during and after

Whether you’re getting ready for your first gig or are a well-seasoned performer, there are a lot of things to keep in mind when it comes to putting on your performance. From set lists to equipment set up, there is a lot of prep work to do before you take the stage. Keeping your instrument well protected and looked after is arguably the most important thing to consider.

Good habits before, during and after your performance can help keep your instrument safe and ready to play.

Before your performance:

Contact site and venue managers

Before your performance, it’s worth contacting the site managers and venue coordinators to find out where and how your instrument(s) and equipment will be stored. Knowing this in advance can help you plan ahead. Store your instrument in a securely locked room. If you’re working with a manager or proprietor of the venue, have them place your instruments in a securely locked room. You’ll want to make sure you’re not just handing your instrument to a member of staff. Other factors to consider include humidity and room temperature as these can have an effect on your instrument and can even cause damage if the conditions are unsuitable.

Take pictures of your instrument and equipment

Taking pictures of your instrument(s) and equipment can be a helpful way to keep track of any damage or loss that could occur during or after a performance. Taking pictures of your full instrument, including the serial number, can be a great way to help you identify its specific make and model, especially if you’re playing at a gig with lots of other musicians.

Mark cases and equipment with distinguishing features

Music cases can look very similar and if you’re at a gig with other acts they could get mixed up. Marking cases with distinctive tags, stickers and markings not only helps you know which is yours but can also help you identify it. Electronic tags like AirTags can also be helpful to track equipment.

Taping up accessories like leads and pedals is also a good idea to help recover them after a performance. Leads can go missing or be misplaced if they’re lent to another performer, so having tape on them will help make it easier to spot.

Don’t leave your vehicle unattended while unloading

When travelling with your equipment in a car or van, make sure all equipment is secured with bungees not just for travel purposes but also to serve as a deterrent to theft. When unloading your vehicle, it’s good practice to have a responsible adult with the equipment at all times, with people taking turns if needed. If you do need to leave the vehicle, make sure your instruments are left locked in a luggage or storage compartment and out of sight.

Insurance for your band equipment

Getting your instrument and equipment insured ahead of time can help you prepare for the worst-case scenario. Finding insurance that is the right fit for your instrument can feel daunting. At musicGuard, we can provide cover for your musical equipment. It is also good practice to locate the nearest police station to your venue in advance as a crime reference number may be needed if you need to make a claim.

During your performance:

Don’t leave your instrument or equipment unattended

Don’t leave your instrument or equipment unattended, always have a responsible adult keeping an eye on it. Between sets or during intervals, make sure your instrument(s) and equipment are secure and a responsible adult is in a position where they can intervene should someone attempt to damage or steal your equipment.

Watch the elements

If you’re playing in an outside space, the elements can be a real challenge. Staying under cover and shielding yourself and your equipment from the elements can help prevent damage. Keeping a microfibre cloth at hand to carefully wipe down your instrument between songs can also help remove any build-up of moisture that can cause damage. Having bin bags over the top of cases to keep excess water from getting on and in your case, will not only help keep your case dry but also keep it dry inside for when you return your instrument after your set.

After your performance:

Secure all instruments

Once you’ve finished your performance you’ll want to immediately secure your instrument. Returning from your performance area with your instrument safely in its case can help keep it from any damage while moving between spaces.

Check your instrument and equipment

Once you are in a space where you can safely set down your instrument, check to make sure there is no visible damage to your instruments post-performance. Taking pictures after can be helpful to refer to if any damage has occurred. Checking that all equipment has been recovered and nothing is missing before you store it can help you keep track of everything. Reporting any damage or missing items as soon as possible if you are missing any instruments or equipment while it is fresh in your mind can help with any details that could help in recovering lost items.