New Telephone Support Network For Musicians

Musicians feeling isolated and anxious can sign up to the Royal Society of Musicians’ (RSM’s) Coronavirus Support Network to chat with other musicians.

Published: 27 April 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM

a woman talking on the phone — A service for musicians feeling cut off from colleagues and friends. Photo credit: Shutterstock

A new RSM telephone support network has been set up by volunteer RSM Members to help their fellow musicians through these very difficult times.

Many musicians are not only suffering financially but are also feeling cut off from colleagues and friends. So, if you are feeling a bit isolated or anxious or you would just appreciate a chat with another musician, perhaps once a week or so, sign up.

The RSM will ‘match’ you with an RSM Member (or Members) who will call you. You can opt out at any point.

If you know other musicians who you think would benefit from being part of the Network but who may not be online and able to fill in the form electronically, the RSM ask you to let them know by emailing network@rsmgb.org.

Further mental health support

For further resources that may be useful during the pandemic – including links to organisations with extra support and downloadable guides – see our Mental Health Support for Musicians page.

See all news

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

Continue reading

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 22 October 2026

Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Young Black women singing into a microphone against a blue, out of focus background.

New REMEL Report Highlights Barriers Facing Black and South Asian-Led Music Events in London

Black Lives in Music has published the REMEL (Race Equality in Music Event Licensing) report, produced with the Greater London Authority, Metropolitan Police Service, UK Music, LIVE and the MU.