Times are tough. I know many people, including myself, who struggle with injuries or illness because of their lack of insurance. And as for musicians, most jobs that are flexible enough to allow touring, recording, etc. don’t offer benefits.

Eventually the healthcare system will provide decent affordable insurance to all, but until then here are a few resources specifically for the musically inclined. Keep in mind that some of these plans are just as expensive as other providers. I recommend looking into the Future of Music Coalition, listed below, for assistance in finding what’s right for you:

• Insurance through BMI

• Insurance through MusicPro, offered by ASCAP, NARAS, and other groups- Get a quick quote HERE:

• American Federation of Television and Radio Artists(AFTRA)

• American Federation of Musicians (AFM)

• Health Alliance for Austin Musicians

The Future of Music Coalition: TFMC offers advice as to what company might have a plan that works in your best interest. You can call to set up a confidential appointment. Pretty rad, if you ask me.

MusiCares - Created by the Grammy Foundation, MusiCares is the Emergency Financial Assistance Program that provides critical funds for musicians struggling with medical, financial or personal crises.

Music Cares has regional offices in Nashville, New York (serving Chicago), and LA which provide services to music professionals across the country. Applicants should contact the nearest regional office by calling toll-free (800.687.4227 -West Coast, 877.626.2748 - Central and 877.303.6962 Northeast.) to inquire about possible assistance and start the intake process.

Eligibility:
“This program is available to music people who have experienced an unavoidable emergency. Eligibility consists of documented employment in the music industry for at least five years or credited contribution to six commercially released recordings or videos. Documentation can be provided in a variety of ways including liner note credits, copies of contracts, check stubs, brochures, flyers and newspaper articles”
Click here to read more.

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Lastly, I’d like to give a big shout-out to two incredible ladies in the Chicago area. Jill Coyne (Certified Rolfer) and Claire Mooney (Acupuncturist/Herbalist). Years of musical training, head-banging, and carrying amps often affect more than your muscle memory. Arthritis, poor posture, aches & pains, etc, are common problems that musicians feel they are stuck with. But check it - you don’t have to live this way! Seriously consider the benefits of rolfing and acupuncture. These forms of therapy actually help people work out their pains as opposed to just medicating and living with them. I can’t begin to tell you how helpful this stuff really is!! If you’re not in the Chicago area I’m sure you can find someone just as righteous to fix you up. If you are in the Chicago area and are interested in learning more about rolfing and acupuncture there’s an upcoming lecture  on December 9th, from 7-9:00 where Jill & Claire will fill you in. Event details here.

** A big thank you to Brett Bryngelson for helping me gather needed information on the Musicares program!**
If you have some insight to other providers/organizations/options then please let me know! Your wealth of knowledge is valuable.