skip to main content

Member Petitions for Glasgow Recording Studios to be in Covid Business Rates Relief Scheme

Members in Glasgow and surrounding areas are encouraged to sign this petition calling on Glasgow City Council to include music studios in the 100% Covid council tax relief awarded to retail, leisure and hospitality.

Published: 04 January 2021 | 5:17 PM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph a vintage looking recording studio.
“Music studios are facing huge bills for Business Rates from GCC with little or no income to finance this due to Covid.” Photo credit: Shutterstock

A member in Glasgow has started a petition, calling on Glasgow City Council to consider her request for business rates relief.

You can find out more and sign the petition now on the Change.org page.

The member, Lesley O’Brien, has described the need for business rates relief to be extended to music studios:

“Music studios are facing huge bills for Business Rates from GCC with little or no income to finance this due to C. They are paying huge sums of money (for example, £1000 per month!) for a business that has been closed during lockdown and at best when they have been able to open, have had few customers due to Covid restrictions.

“The solution to this problem is to include music studios in the 100% Covid Council Tax relief awarded to retail, leisure and hospitality. This could help stop permanent closure for studios and allow them to continue to service the wider network of musicians survive the pandemic, helping overcome isolation, mental health problems and providing opportunities to employment.”

Sign the petition on Change.org 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

Two people at a march holding a large banner that says

Updated Membership Subscription Rates for 2026

In order to continue providing members with the best possible service and benefits, the MU Executive Committee has agreed on a small increase to membership subscription fees from 1 January 2026.

Published: 09 December 2025

Read more about Updated Membership Subscription Rates for 2026
An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work