skip to main content

Call For Government to Protect Musicians Gains Media Coverage Across the UK

Huge numbers of members and non-member musicians have responded to our coronavirus impact survey.

Published: 24 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
People stacking hands together
The MU's coronavirus impact survey shows an urgent interest across the country in protecting the UK’s music industry, and how vital it is to protect musicians. Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

The figures recorded so far have been reported across the media – giving solid evidence to our call for better protections for musicians and the music industry.

We’ve been asking musicians to fill in our coronavirus impact survey. You’ve been letting us know how the situation is affecting your work, and calculating what it has cost you.

Thanks to everyone who has responded so far the data recorded has seen wide-spread coverage. So far there have been articles in major national print and online publications – as well as over 40 regional news sources.

It shows an urgent interest across the country in protecting the UK’s music industry, and how vital it is that we act now to protect musicians.

Coverage across the media

Coverage of our statistics in major news sources includes:

Call on Government to properly protect freelance workers

Whilst the public's eye is on how musicians are being affected by the pandemic – we urgently need to call on Government to put in proper protections for freelance workers affected by or self-isolating due to coronavirus.

Join us by writing to your MP. We’ve even published a letter template if you’re not sure what to say.

Find out how to take action now

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

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl standing in front of Number 10 Downing Street, along with general secretaries from unions across the country.

MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister

The MU has welcomed the Government’s rethink on AI but has emphasised the importance of copyright reform to the Prime Minister. While the shift away from an opt-out system is positive, we continue to call for Government intervention to ensure musicians are fairly paid as AI licensing grows.

Published: 19 March 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister
A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026

Read more about MU Statement on Conflict in Iran
A placard at a march against the far right.

Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right

Join us on Saturday 28 March for what’s expected to be the UK’s largest anti‑racist march. Find out how to join the MU delegation and explore our new Anti‑Far Right Hub to learn how far‑right movements operate and how to challenge them.

Published: 17 March 2026

Read more about Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right
Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force