It's
not uncommon for British bands, even those on small
record labels, to attract interest outside the U.K.
quite quickly. Should you be offered any gigs or
tours abroad, here's some basic advice. This may seem
obvious, but ensure that all members of the band have
current passports! The tour or engagement should be
covered by a written contract (in English) and this
contract should be vetted by, for example, the
Musicians Union's National Office. It would be
difficult for anyone to assist you in recovering any
unpaid fees, either by legal action or Trade Union
representation, if they haven't seen the contract in
the first place. Fees should never be less than those
paid in the U.K. for similar performances. If you're
working with a new Promoter it's wise to ask for some
sort of deposit in advance and further payments
should be made promptly during the tour at the times
specified in the contract.
All
travelling expenses from the U.K. to the country
abroad, in that country and return must be paid by
the Promoter. Once again, it's wise to try and get
these pre paid. Accommodation is normally provided by
the Promoter and where this consists of bed and
breakfast, an additional subsistence payment should
be paid to each musician. These payments are commonly
referred to as Per Diems and should not be less than
£50 per day. Work permits are required in all non-EU
countries. The responsibility for fixing work permits
rests with the Promoters of the tour in the country
abroad, but you should ensure that permits have been
granted before leaving the U.K. Be warned! Many bands
have been turned back by immigration officials for
not having work permits.
There's
always the possibility of illness or accident during
the time you're abroad and you should therefore
ensure that you're covered for medical treatment. For
full details of medical services available in other
countries you should contact International Services
on 0645 254811 (local rate) or 0191 225 4811. If
you're travelling out by van it's sensible to join
the AA/RAC/GREENFLAG and take advantage of their free
advice on motoring abroad.
Finally,
if you're taking along your favourite AC30, etc,
ensure that you have information concerning plugs,
power supply and all things electrical for the
countries you'll be visiting.
