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Equality groups

Improving equality, diversity and inclusion in the music industry

As a trade union with a diverse membership, we understand the challenges musicians face and the need to be led by you. Watch MU Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion John Shortell talk about how the Musicians’ Union is campaigning for a fairer and more equitable music industry, and how MU members can get involved.

The MU's work

Equality and diversity in the music industry and why it matters

Equality is not about treating everybody the same

It goes without saying that everybody should be treated fairly and equally regardless of their race, sex, sexuality or any of the other protected characteristics. That said, treating someone fairly can sometimes mean having to treat them differently to take into account their circumstances and enable them to participate on equal terms.

A musician with full sight, for example, does not require Braille scores, or a Trans musician may need extra support whilst transitioning that a cisgender musician will not. Equality is about levelling the playing field so everybody has access to the same opportunities. 

Diversity is about recognising individual as well as group differences, and aims to create an inclusive culture for all

Diversity values and respects people’s differences to ensure everybody’s needs and requirements are met. Supporting diversity in music could be something as simple as changing the music you teach so you’re not only teaching white European composers or making sure your rehearsal space is accessible to musicians with disabilities.

Equality and diversity leads to more innovation and more opportunities for everyone, and better access to talent

Working with people from different backgrounds and with different experiences allows us to learn and get a new perspective.

The benefits of equality and diversity are clear but this doesn’t mean embracing equality and diversity is easy. The MU works with a range of members and organisations to ensure best practice is highlighted, implemented and adhered to regarding equality and diversity issues. 

Contact MU Equalities team

If you’d like to discuss any other matter related to music and equal rights at work, contact us on 020 7840 5506 or email us.

Latest stories

A Black male musician wearing a baseball cap singing into a microphone.

Have Your Say on the Value of Black British Music

Artists, creators and industry professionals working with Black British music are encouraged to take part in the survey to understand the value that the artform brings to the UK music industry.

Published: 04 December 2024

Read more about Have Your Say on the Value of Black British Music
Close up of two microphones on a mixing desk in a studio.

CIISA Launches Open Consultation of Standards for Creative Industries

The MU is encouraging all members to take part in the consultation (which runs until 27 January), to help set out the minimum standards of behaviour expected across the UK’s creative industries, to enable safe and inclusive working environments.

Published: 02 December 2024

Read more about CIISA Launches Open Consultation of Standards for Creative Industries

Llinos Owen for Disability History Month: “My Experiences as a Disabled Orchestral Musician Have Been Varied to Say the Least!”

In our third member blog for Disability History Month 2024, Llinos Owen shares her personal story of music-making and activism, how MU membership has supported her journey, and why she believes attitudes towards access needs are changing, for the better.

Published: 28 November 2024

Read more about Llinos Owen for Disability History Month: “My Experiences as a Disabled Orchestral Musician Have Been Varied to Say the Least!”

10 Ways to Make the Music Industry More Inclusive for Disabled Musicians

The Musicians' Census' Disabled Musicians Insight Report revealed multiple issues that the music industry and Government need to tackle to make the industry more inclusive for disabled musicians. Here we look at the recommendations we think can make that happen.

Published: 26 November 2024

Read more about 10 Ways to Make the Music Industry More Inclusive for Disabled Musicians