skip to main content

Heart Unions Week: I've been a member of the MU for 10 years

To celebrate Heart Unions Week, we asked MU members what the Union means to them. Share the love using the hashtag #HeartUnions

Published: 13 February 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 22 April 2026 | 3:27 PM

This Heart Unions Week , Laura Kidd aka She Makes War shares her thoughts on what the Musicians’ Union means to her…

“I've been a member of the MU for 10 years and in that time have felt empowered by the knowledge that I'm not alone.

“As an independent recording artist and session musician I've gone to the Union for legal assistance on numerous occasions, and have always been impressed staff are able to give my issues a proper amount of time and consideration.

“They must be extremely busy but the services they're able to offer are invaluable.”

Feeling inspired?

Ask your friends and colleagues if they are a member of their Union!

You can also share the love in other ways this Heart Unions Week:

  • Tweet us at @WeAreTheMU about how the MU has helped you. Use the hashtag #HeartUnions. 
  • Share a selfie with the Heart Unions poster using the hashtag #HeartUnions.
  • Be sure your voice is heard. There lots of ways to get active in the MU from attending events to joining one of the MU’s many committees and taking part in the Union’s democracy. Find out what you can do, starting now.  

You can also attend one of the many events across England and Wales. 

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

13 members of the Board gathered in front of some stairs.

MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board

The MU has joined the new Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board alongside artists, venues, labels, media professionals, academics and industry experts. The Board will help shape the future of the region’s music sector and support long-term growth across the local music ecosystem.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board
The panellists sat on the stage with microphones, in front of a screen with saying

MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026

At Liverpool Sound City Conference 2026, the MU brought together industry professionals and working musicians for its ‘Money in the Mix’ panel to demystify these issues and offer practical insights into building a sustainable career in session work.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026
Chapman sat in front of a piano, talking to Claudia Winkleman on set for Channel Four’s show The Piano.

Why So Few Disabled Professional Musicians: The Barriers Built Into UK Music Education

Why are disabled musicians still so rarely seen in the UK’s conservatoires, orchestras and freelance workforce? For Chun, the parent of accomplished young MU member Chapman, the answer lies not in a lack of talent, but in post-16 structures that continue to close doors on disabled progression.

Published: 08 May 2026

Read more about Why So Few Disabled Professional Musicians: The Barriers Built Into UK Music Education
Marcelo and another busker in yellow M U campaign t-shirts holding pink cut out guitars at a demo last August.

Protecting Amplification in Busking

One year on from the Leicester Square busking ban, MU member Marcelo Cervone reflects on how amplification shapes public space, challenges misconceptions on busking volume and makes the case for protecting performers’ pitches.

Published: 08 May 2026

Read more about Protecting Amplification in Busking