We Are Behind Every Musician

We are a community of over 36,000 musicians working to protect our members' rights and campaign for a fairer music industry.

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Campaigns

Change the Law to Fix Music Streaming

Next year’s AI Bill is a chance to fix copyright law so musicians get a fair deal. Help us urge MPs to act now and change the law to make streaming work for everyone.

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News

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

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Member benefit

New Cinema Ticket Discount for MU Members

The outside of the BBC Headquarters building.

BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch

The MU has joined sister unions in writing to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to reiterate the key principles that should underpin the BBC Charter Review process.

Published: 18 December 2025

Black and white image of a conductor in front of the orchestra pit in a theatre, cast members are on stage in the background out of focus.

MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review

We broadly welcome Baroness Margaret Hodge’s review of Arts Council England, which reflects many of the concerns raised by the MU and other creative unions. We will now press the government to respond positively to its recommendations.

Published: 18 December 2025

Two hands outstretched, each holding a jigsaw piece that will fit together.

Lessons from the MU’s Courageous Conversations Workshop

The music industry can be a difficult environment in which to have the conversations that you want and need in the workplace, but a one-day course hosted by the MU has offered a way forward.

Published: 18 December 2025

Naomi Pohl at Labour Party Conference 2024 holding a placard that says 'Labour's New Deal for Working People'.

Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law

The MU welcomes passage of the Employment Rights Bill, which will now become law. Shaped by trade union input, the legislation represents an important step forward for workers’ rights, equality and protections, with further reforms for freelancers promised in a second phase.

Published: 16 December 2025

MU Urges Government to Back Musicians on AI

The MU is urging the Government to drop its original AI proposal after the interim consultation response revealed overwhelming opposition. With only 3% of respondents backing the preferred option, ministers must now deliver robust regulation to protect musicians’ rights.

Published: 16 December 2025

Pernambuco Bows to Remain on Appendix II

A proposal to move pernambuco to Appendix I, which would have effectively halted international trade in the wood used for professional string instrument bows, has been rejected after lobbying by the MU and partners, ensuring continued access for musicians and stronger species protections.

Published: 15 December 2025

MU Backs Petition to Stop Closure of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Music Department

The MU is supporting members who have raised concerns and is currently involved in consultation with the RSC.

Published: 12 December 2025

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Upcoming events

Last chance to book

19 Dec 2025

Feldenkrais: Move Better, Feel Better, Perform Better

Free up your playing and singing using the Feldenkrais method, a sensory-motor learning system which looks at our mind and body holistically.

Online Member only

Last chance to book

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22 Dec 2025

Guided Meditation

An extremely efficient and powerful meditation practice, based on Ascension meditation techniques that are tailored to help musicians both in their professional and personal lives.

Online Member only

Upcoming

07 Jan 2026

CULT Cymru: Tax Going Digital

An in-person training session for Wales members to learn about HMRC's new tax reporting requirements that will come into effect in April 2026.

Cardiff

Upcoming

08 Jan 2026

CULT Cymru: Finance for Freelancers

An in-person training day for creatives in Wales who are either currently freelance or are going freelance for the first time.

Cardiff

Upcoming

14 Jan 2026

How to Get the Most out of Your MU Membership

New North of England members are invited to our online event where we explore how to make the most out of your membership.

Online Member only

Upcoming

17 Jan 2026

Ladies of the Stave: Secrets of the Keys

A free in-person training day for female pianists, keyboard players and musical directors in theatre, taking place in London.

London

Plan ahead

18 Jan 2026

Free Portable Appliance Testing (PAT), Birmingham

This is an opportunity to ensure that your equipment is safe, and that you are able to provide assurances for your insurance, venues and bookers. Available for all MU Midlands members.

Birmingham

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Be better represented

Join an MU Member Network

Your opinions on equality and diversity issues are vital to the way the MU shapes its services, policies and campaigns. Sign up to our Member Networks to be better represented as a musician.

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#WorkNotPlayMU

This is not a hobby - it's our profession

No-one should feel guilty about turning down unpaid “opportunities". Have you been asked to work for no fee?

Tell us about it See all Campaigns

This is not a hobby - it's our profession

We Are Behind Every Musician

Change the Law to Fix Music Streaming

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

New Cinema Ticket Discount for MU Members

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News and features