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Guidance and advice

Career as a live musician

Supporting musicians who perform live

If you’re performing your own original music, working in covers bands, function bands, tribute bands or busking, the Musicians' Union can support you. Use our template standard contracts to protect your rights when you’re being engaged, and get advice on how much you should be paid.

Member services for live musicians

Latest news and features

Small, dark, empty stage at a grassroots basement style venue. Instruments are ready and fairy lights line the back wall of the stage.

Second Phase of UK Artist Touring Fund Opens with £300,000 Boost

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), backed by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has expanded its support for UK artists, with an additional £300,000 added to the fund and successful applicants now able to apply for up to £8,000. Applications for this round close on 11 September.

Published: 03 September 2026

Read more about Second Phase of UK Artist Touring Fund Opens with £300,000 Boost
Silhouette of crowd with their hands in the air, watching a small outdoor stage, lit by blue lights. Confetti falls from the sky.

MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost

The MU has welcomed the launch of the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO), calling it a significant step towards creating more opportunities for musicians across the North and helping artists build sustainable careers at home while reaching audiences worldwide.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost
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Oscar York

I realised the MU would help me achieve my ambitions faster and better by providing connections, legal support, and access to insurance for my instrument.

Oscar YorkDrummer and a music scholar
Annette Walker

There are times when my tap work is more musician-based than dance, and I hope to be able to pave the way for others to recognise the relationship of tap dance as a percussive instrument within a band.

Annette WalkerMultidisciplinary performer
Amanda Dal

A lot of the time when you play gigs you get dodgy deals, or they don’t want to pay you and it’s great to know that’s not right.

Amanda DalMulti-genre drummer

Contact the Musicians' Union today

The MU has a network of experienced teams available to help musicians in all areas of the industry. If you have any questions about our services, membership or how the MU could help you, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

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