skip to main content

Performing Arts Guidance for New Tier System in England Released

The Government has updated and published its guidance on working safely during Coronavirus in the Performing Arts – and we have updated our guidance on how this relates to musicians accordingly.

Published: 01 December 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM

The Government’s new tier three system for England is due to begin on Wednesday 2 December, and we have been publishing details on how these restrictions will affect musicians as they have been confirmed with us.

The Performing Arts guidance has now been published on the Government’s website – with the main changes being a U-turn that allows music venues in Tier 2 to serve alcohol without substantial meals, changes to our advice for education, recording and broadcasting, and orchestras across all three tiers.

Musicians in England should check our page Covid-19 restrictions page for the advice relevant to them.

Be sure your voice is heard

In order to present the Government with undeniable evidence on the action that they must take to protect musicians, we need proof. Please take part in our fourth Covid-19 impact survey to make sure that your voice is heard.

This time we’re asking for more detailed information, including your region and gender, so that we can reflect the changing restrictions geographically.

Be sure your voice is heard – take our Covid-19 impact survey to help us help musicians.

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

Naomi Pohl at Labour Party Conference 2024 holding a placard that says 'Labour's New Deal for Working People'.

Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law

The MU welcomes passage of the Employment Rights Bill, which will now become law. Shaped by trade union input, the legislation represents an important step forward for workers’ rights, equality and protections, with further reforms for freelancers promised in a second phase.

Published: 16 December 2025

Read more about Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law
A person's open palm holding a graphic of sound waves.

MU Urges Government to Back Musicians on AI

The MU is urging the Government to drop its original AI proposal after the interim consultation response revealed overwhelming opposition. With only 3% of respondents backing the preferred option, ministers must now deliver robust regulation to protect musicians’ rights.

Published: 16 December 2025

Read more about MU Urges Government to Back Musicians on AI
Close up of violin and bow.

Pernambuco Bows to Remain on Appendix II

A proposal to move pernambuco to Appendix I, which would have effectively halted international trade in the wood used for professional string instrument bows, has been rejected after lobbying by the MU and partners, ensuring continued access for musicians and stronger species protections.

Published: 15 December 2025

Read more about Pernambuco Bows to Remain on Appendix II