MU General Secretary Sends Personal Message to Members Affected by Coronavirus Outbreak

In the video message, which was published across the MU’s social channels this morning (Monday, 23 March), Horace Trubridge announced the measures the MU would take to alleviate the pressure on musicians.

The video accompanies today’s announcement that the MU have opened a £1M fund for MU members with genuine and pressing hardship as a result of the Coronavirus.

In the video, Trubridge explained:

“I am sending you this personal message to try and reassure you that the Musicians' Union is doing everything it possibly can to try and alleviate some of the pressure that is on you because of cancelled bookings due to the coronavirus.“

▶️ Musicians have lost more than £14m in earnings so far
▶️ 90% tell us their work has been affected
▶️ Job opportunities are down 69% on this time last year

That's why we're launching the MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. Apply now at https://t.co/w39E651W9s#BehindEveryMusician pic.twitter.com/QyLwMWYAYp

— Musicians' Union (@WeAreTheMU) March 23, 2020

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Call on Government to properly protect freelance workers

Whilst we’re doing what we can to alleviate some of the financial pressure on musicians – we urgently need proper protections from Government for freelance workers affected by or self-isolating due to coronavirus.

We’re asking musicians to join us by writing to their MPs. We’ve even published a letter template if you’re not sure what to say – find out how to take action now