skip to main content

Women in Music Panel Offer Their Advice for #IWD2016

We asked each member of our International Women’s Day, Women in Music panel for the one piece of advice they would offer women working in the industry.

Published: 16 March 2016 | 12:00 AM Updated: 05 July 2021 | 5:14 PM
Portrait of Rita Ray at Women in Music Panel

We asked each member of our International Women’s Day Women in Music panel for one piece of advice for women working in the industry. Here’s what they had to say…

“Look after each other; it’s not a competition. Speak up and speak out.” – Claire Mooney (songwriter and performer)

“Get on and do it.  No-one owes you a living. If you want to do it, you’ll find a way. Find other women who are doing it and connect with them.” – Rita Ray (writer, composer, DJ)

“Focus on educating people. Find other types of music, music that isn’t as popular and connect with that.” – Sara Lowes (writer and performer)

“If you can’t find it, create it yourself. Most successful women made a point of not settling. Don’t take shit from anyone.” – Rebecca Pickles (vocalist, event manager and one-third of The Pipettes)

“Don’t forget how far we have already come. Don’t limit yourself and do it for you.” – Jote Osahn (violinist, string arranger and composer)

“I’m never going to apologise again. Never apologise for being yourself.” Natalie McCool (singer, songwriter and guitarist)

Catch up with the highlights of our Women In Music panel event, in which Claire, Rita, Sara, Rebecca, Jote and Natalie discuss the challenges facing women in the music industry, and how we can overcome them.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

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

Large up close 'Brighton' sign from Brighton Pier against a blue sky.

The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024

As part of our work with the Council of Music Makers, the MU will be taking part in various panel events during the festival’s industry conference, which is being held 15 - 18 May in Brighton. Some of our Officers will also be available for one-to-ones for any members attending.

Published: 23 April 2024

Read more about The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024
Young female Black musician, wearing headphones sat in front of a keyboard in a recording studio.

Black Lives in Music Launch YourSafetyYourSay Survey on Bullying and Harassment in the Music Industry

The survey will inform government legislation, the work of the new Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority and the wider music industry. It will also be used to support BLiM’s forthcoming Anti Racist Code of Conduct. Members are encouraged to share their experiences.

Published: 19 April 2024

Read more about Black Lives in Music Launch YourSafetyYourSay Survey on Bullying and Harassment in the Music Industry
Exterior of Caird Hall in the city centre of Dundee, Scotland.

Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024

This week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress with MU Delegates Christine Cooper and Ben Lunn, who discussed the importance of music education, community arts in Scotland and establishing a Music Expo Office for the country. All three of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 18 April 2024

Read more about Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024