skip to main content
Search

BBC News reports on low pay for orchestral players

Musicians' Union (MU) research shows almost half of the UK’s orchestral musicians do not earn enough to live on, despite the extraordinary role that orchestras play in people’s daily lives.

Published: 03 May 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

Musicians' Union (MU) research shows almost half of the UK’s orchestral musicians do not earn enough to live on, despite the extraordinary role that orchestras play in people’s daily lives.
Screenshot from BBC News interview with Naomi Pohl

BBC News’ Lizo Mzimba reported on the MU's research looking at low pay for orchestral players. She talked to musicians Jemma Freestone and Nigel Charman about life as an orchestral player.

Watch the full report online.

“Even if you're not a classical music fan, you probably interact with orchestras more than you realise. Watching your favourite TV programme or film, or playing your favourite video game - orchestral musicians are on those soundtracks."

- Naomi Pohl, MU Assistant General Secretary

That’s why we’re launching The Musician Behind the Moment, our new campaign to show the true value of the UK’s orchestral musicians.

Four inspiring musicians share their most poignant career moments – from Maxine performing on the Star Wars soundtracks to Michael making music with the elderly.

Explore Baluji, Maxine, Claire and Michael’s moments.

Share a moment you’ve been a part of on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram using #MUmoment.

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

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

MU delegates and members of our sister creative unions on the steps of Caird Hall.

MU Delegates Champion Fair Work, Cultural Rights and Island Connectivity at STUC Congress 2026

Last week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) with MU delegates who supported a range of topics including Fair Work for freelancers, music as a human right, international solidarity and why ferries serving the Scottish islands are vital to cultural workers and the economy.

Published: 28 April 2026

Read more about MU Delegates Champion Fair Work, Cultural Rights and Island Connectivity at STUC Congress 2026
Charlene, Sinead and three members who attended the meeting.

MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians

MU members met this week for an open discussion on working life in Belfast, highlighting how rising parking costs, limited access to venues and late-night working conditions are placing increasing pressure on musicians and undermining its UNESCO City of Music status.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians
Shot of a large crowd at a small, grassroots music concert. The band on stage are in silhouette against purple, blue and orange lights.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), supported by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has awarded its first wave of grants to 26 artists across 211 gigs, helping deliver fair pay and access in the grassroots live sector.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists
All news and features