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Guidance for music writers

Commissioned Work

Commissioned Work

Fee guidelines for live commissions and recorded media commissions, and standard commissioning contracts for your use.

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Royalties

How unpublished composers and songwriters can receive fees and royalties from the use of their works.

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Copyright

A guide to UK copyright law, proving and protecting your songwriting or composition copyright.

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Career as a composer

Insights

Composing 101

Media composers Andrea Posse, Victoria Wijeratne, Marie-Anne Fischer, and Roma Yagnik discuss the creative challenges and rewards of their craft.

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What the MU does for composers and songwriters

The Musicians' Union represents composers and songwriters, with a dedicated section for music writers. Here’s how we can support you, from copyright law and royalty payments to template contracts and advice on rates of pay.

Member services

All composer resources

The world of music can be a complicated and daunting place at times. The contract advice service is so incredibly valuable, and I am so grateful that the MU are there to support people like me.

Luke GittinsIndependent singer-songwriter
Steve Sidwell

I feel good about our Union and think they’ve worked hard during lockdown to encourage and help their members. They’re a good bunch with a wealth of experience.

Steve SidwellRenowned arranger and composer

Latest news and features

Music composer sat in front of a computer screen and laptop, wearing headphones and making notes.

MU Backs Global Call for Artists’ Rights in AI Music Deals

The MU has joined artists, songwriters and music industry organisations from around the world in signing a new open letter coordinated by the European Music Managers Alliance (EMMA), calling for creators' rights to be respected in AI-related music deals.

Published: 25 June 2026

Read more about MU Backs Global Call for Artists’ Rights in AI Music Deals
A outstretched hand holding a megaphone against a lilac background.

Important Update for Members: MU Sections and Committees Rebrand

From April 2026, MU Sections will be relaunched as ‘Sectors’, and their Committees as ‘Advisory Boards’. Elections will also take place in the new year for members to form the new Advisory Boards for the next two-year term.

Published: 11 December 2025

Read more about Important Update for Members: MU Sections and Committees Rebrand
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#FairScore

Calling all media composers

Get a fair share of the value you create. Back the Fair Score campaign.

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Calling all media composers