Freelance Musician Guide

Tips and guidance for self-employed musicians.

Last updated: 03 October 2023

Career tips

A Young Freelancer's Guide

Mental Health and the Music Industry

Find helpful insight and advice as you navigate the industry as a young freelance musician.

The basics

Starting Out as a Freelancer

Learn how to get work and build relationships with the people you want to work with

How to Prioritise Your Freelance Work

Tips on dealing with being provisionally booked for new work

Funding and Financing Your Music and Projects

Latest news and features

Hungary Parliament Passes Anti-LGBTQ+ Law Banning Pride Events

Hungary has passed a new anti-LGBTQ+ law that bans Pride events and allows authorities to use facial recognition software to identify those attending the festivities.

Published: 19 March 2025

A DJ performing at an outdoor festival in Croatia.

Positive News for Artists Gigging in Croatia

The Croatian Parliament has passed amendments to the Aliens Act, meaning UK artists and crew performing or touring in Croatia for less than three months no longer need a visa and work authorisation certificates.

Published: 13 March 2025

A young girl wearing school uniform and playing a violin in a classroom.

Funding Applications Open for Youth Music Projects in Scotland

Individuals, organisations and networks in Scotland can apply for funding for CPD to support their youth music project. Applications close on 31 March 2025.

Published: 07 March 2025

Double bass leaning against a wooden chair.

Double Basses on French Trains – An Update

Although the absolute ban on musicians travelling with a double bass on TGV trains in France has been reversed, there are some restrictions members need to be aware of.

Published: 04 March 2025

Young Black woman smiling at an open laptop at home surrounded by pens and a note pad.

New Career Opportunities for Creative Freelancers in the West and South West of England

West of England Music and Arts’ Cultural Education Hub is offering up to 12 grants as part of its Creatives in Schools programme, and Black South West Network have opened applications for their CultureBiz Connect Incubator Programme.

Published: 03 March 2025

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