skip to main content

Problems on French Trains for Musicians with Large Instruments

A recent meeting of the International Federation of Musicians Europe group has revealed that musicians with large instruments such as double basses are being stopped from travelling on some French trains.

Photo ofDave Webster
By Dave Webster Published: 16 December 2022 | 12:26 PM
View from a train window as it hurtles through green countryside and farms.
If you are planning to visit or tour France by train, then be sure to check on the current situation. Photo credit: Shutterstock

At a time when we are all thinking about how we can reduce our touring carbon footprint and considering travelling across France by train, if you have a large instrument then it might be easier to go by car.

The most recent meeting of the International Federation of Musicians Europe group revealed that the MU in France – SNAM, have been in talks with French train company SNCF regarding the ban they have placed on musicians travelling on their fast TGV trains with large instruments. This, say SNCF, is due to their trains not being big enough to accommodate such instruments, however our colleagues in SNAM are disputing this.

Musicians with large instruments advised to avoid TGV trains

The French national train company, SNCF does not allow oversize instruments (up to 130 cm x 90 cm), such as double basses, harps, tubas, etc., in their fast trains (TGV). Musicians holding valid tickets with their instruments have been fined or even expelled or barred from entering trains.

The French musicians’ union SNAM has been negotiating with SNCF to find a reasonable solution (including paying extra room), but SNCF are sticking to their guns. SNAM is currently leading a campaign of protest. However, as long as the situation remains, foreign musicians travelling to France with these instruments are advised to avoid TGV trains.

Not all trains have the same level of restrictions and enforcement

If you are planning to visit or tour France by train, then be sure to check on the current situation. There are other train companies, and we are told that non–TGV trains are not subject to the same strict level of restrictions and enforcement.

However, levels of enforcement across the other train companies do vary, but it is generally problematic for all rail operators across France accommodating musicians with large instruments.

We will keep members updated on any progress.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Exterior of the Middlesex Guildhall in London, location of the UK Supreme Court.

UK Supreme Court Rules on Legal Definition of Woman in the Equality Act

The Court has ruled that 'woman' in the Equality Act refers to biological women, excluding trans women with gender recognition certificates. The MU is urgently seeking information on what this means for trans members, and encourages anyone facing discrimination to contact their regional office.

Published: 17 April 2025

Read more about UK Supreme Court Rules on Legal Definition of Woman in the Equality Act
A bright orange sunrise bursting through clouds over a calm sea.

MU Reiterates Call for Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza

The MU supports TUC’s recent statement on the conflict in Gaza and calls again for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Members who may have suffered harassment, discrimination or lost work are also reminded to contact their regional office for advice and support.

Published: 15 April 2025

Read more about MU Reiterates Call for Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza
A stack of Kayla's 'Fractures' albums, signed and ready to be posted.

Member’s Voice: Kayla Painter on the Rewards of Self-Releasing Music

In this blog, MU member, educator, producer, and electronic musician Kayla Painter shares her experience of self-releasing music. Following the success of her album launch last year, she explores the ups and downs of the DIY route, offering invaluable firsthand advice to other members.

Published: 15 April 2025

Read more about Member’s Voice: Kayla Painter on the Rewards of Self-Releasing Music