skip to main content

Live Performance Section

This section is for musicians working in all areas of live performance, such as gigs in pubs, clubs, festivals, busking, hotels, colleges, holiday camps, cruise ships and concert halls. Section members can also get involved with the Section Committee work.

Last updated: 11 November 2025

How are live performing musicians represented?

Live music events represent an increasingly important element of most musicians’ income, as it is an ongoing struggle for musicians to make a fair living from publishing and rights alone, so the work of the Section is vitally important.  

The Live Performance Section is headed up by Kelly Wood who liaises with the Section Committee and feeds back its key findings to the Executive Committee, as well as being on hand for the 12,000 strong MU members who perform live.

Join the Live Performance Section

What does the Live Performance Section Committee do?

The Live Performance Section Committee is discussing a range of topics concerning musicians in live industry, such as international touring issues, festivals, emerging artists, working with featured artists, working in small venues, local government planning policy, street busking, vehicle parking in city centres, and sexual harassment in the live performance sector.  

Our Committee is keen to press for equal opportunities and high standards of employment for everyone.

If you are a MU member who is working as live performer and are willing to help us affect change for good, get in touch or find out more.

The MU Members’ Assembly brings together members from every committee and network in the Union to explore the big issues affecting musicians from diverse perspectives.

Learn more

Live news and features

A woman sat in a park closing her eyes and gently stretching her neck to the side.

Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter

Originally posted on her blog, professional classical musician and Feldenkrais teacher Emma Alter discusses how our neck and spine work together. The rest of this year’s Feldenkrais sessions will follow the theme of ‘Freeing Your Neck’, and are free for MU members.

Published: 18 November 2025

Read more about Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter
A close-up of the BBC Scotland building in Glasgow.

BBC Radio Scotland Axes Four Longstanding Music Shows

Four of Scotland's best-known radio shows are due to be dropped by the end of the year and replaced with a new 'easy listening' programme for more mainstream appeal. Sign the petition to help reverse the decision and protect the future of music in Scotland.

Published: 17 November 2025

Read more about BBC Radio Scotland Axes Four Longstanding Music Shows

Artist Applications for Wide Days 2026 Now Open

Artists and music creators of any genre based in Scotland can now apply for the Wide Days showcase programme for 2026. There are two opportunities available to apply for: the Talent Development Programme and the New From Scotland showcase slot. 

Published: 10 November 2025

Read more about Artist Applications for Wide Days 2026 Now Open