Freelance Musician Guide

Tips and guidance for self-employed musicians.

Last updated: 29 October 2026

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

Woman sat on a bench in front of water at sunrise, with her head back, eyes closed, listening to over ear headphones. Woman sat on a bench in front of water at sunrise, with her head back, eyes closed

BAPAM Launches StageFit — A New Online Health Training Platform for Performing Arts Professionals

BAPAM, with funding from PPL, has launched StageFit, a free online health training platform designed to help everyone working and studying in the performing arts protect their health and wellbeing.

Published: 04 November 2026

A calculator and pair of glasses on top of a sound mixing desk.

Member Benefit: Discounted Tax Advice for Musicians

From royalties and advances to self-employment, PAYE and international work, musicians often have unique tax needs. MU members can access discounted advice from qualified tax professionals with experience of the music industry.

Published: 01 November 2026

Exterior shot of a modern glass and white stoned building that says RNCM on the front in large black letters.

Call for Submissions: International Symposium on Performing Artists’ Health and Wellbeing

The PAMA International Symposium is coming to Manchester in July 2027, and MU members are invited to share their ideas, knowledge and experiences of supporting artists’ health and wellbeing.

Published: 30 October 2026

Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

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