How the MU Works

Everything we say and do has the power of over 36,000 musicians behind it

Trade unions have power because of their members, and the MU is no exception. The MU is a democratic organisation, governed by its members through a system of representative democracy, like all other trade unions.

Our democratic structures means that everything we say and do has the power of over 36,000 musicians behind it.

Every member can be involved as much or as little as they wish. Explore how you can be better represented, and how to get involved with shaping the MU's policy through its democratic structure.

Representing the views of different parts of the music profession

An MU Music Industry Sector is a group of members who work in the same area of the music industry, be it music education, orchestras, theatre, live performance, composing or recording. When you first join the Union, you are invited to join at least one music industry sector group. You can join as many of our Sectors as you wish, and this will entitle you to receive sector-specific newsletters and other communications and advice. It will also enable you to put yourself forward to sit on the Advisory Board for that Music Industry Sector.

Giving musicians a voice

The MU is in regular contact with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and ensures that musicians are represented during vital debates that affect musicians working at all levels of the industry.

The MU plays a leading role in the International Federation of Musicians (FIM) – the international organisation for musicians that incorporates 72 unions from across the world. FIM’s main objective is to protect and further the economic, social and artistic interests of musicians organised in member unions.

Trade union members need a political voice

Politicians make decisions that affect the lives of union members at work and at home. Unions need to be able to influence those decisions.

The MU is part of the Performers’ Alliance All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) – a cross-party group of MPs and Peers who act as advocates for the performing arts. One of the major achievements of the APPG is that it is genuinely cross party – something which is extremely rare for a trade union parliamentary group.

The MU takes part in meetings and receptions at the House of Commons that give performers the opportunity to meet and discuss issues with members of both Houses.

The MU's Political Fund allows us to pay its share of the costs of the Performers’ Alliance All-Party Parliamentary Group. It also allows us to remain affiliated to the Labour Party.

Members can opt in or out of paying the levy to the MU's Political Fund at any time. 

Negotiating pay and conditions for musicians

Collective bargaining is a core priority for the MU - and collective agreements are something that only trade unions can agree with employers.

The MU negotiates and agrees fees, rates and conditions with all the major UK employers in orchestras, theatres, engagers, organisations, as well as setting our own promulgated rates.