Live Music, Performance & Gigging News & Stories

Two sets of drum sticks lie on different instruments in a percussion section set up but with absent musicians.

Music Industry Unites to Save Touring in Europe, Ahead of Crucial Parliament Debate

The largest bodies representing musicians, the Musicians’ Union and the Incorporated Society of Musicians, are jointly calling for improved touring arrangements after Brexit.

Published: 08 February 2021

Woman waits by a train with a guitar strapped to her back, she is looking at her watch. Photo credit: Shutterstock

US Immigration Roll Backs

In this blog MU National Organiser Live Performance, Dave Webster, discusses how US President Biden has started to roll back on some of the executive orders brought in by President Trump.

Published: 03 February 2021

Photograph of a sandy coloured electric guitar laid out on a wood table with a loop of amplifier cable and earphones also displayed.

Free PRS Licences for Small Online Performances of Own Works Announced

PRS for Music have announced that PRS members performing their own works in a small online ticketed concert can now obtain a free licence.

Published: 02 February 2021

Photograph of a person watching a live streamed gig on a mobile phone in their house.

Guidance on the PRS Online Event Licensing Tariff

PRS for Music has announced a new tariff for online ticketed events, so we’ve published an explainer on what’s going on and what musicians need to know.

Published: 28 January 2021

©QUIQUE GARCIA / Stringer / Getty Images

How Musicians Can Help Tackle the E-Waste Mountain

E-waste is now a major environmental issue, and one that musicians can no longer ignore. Can using recycled electronics and vintage kit help change things?

Published: 22 January 2021

Two guitars resting in the grass amongst various objects like blankets and colourful pillows which indicate a festival campsite.

Government Must Support Live Music Following Glastonbury Cancellation

Following the announcement that Glastonbury 2021 has been cancelled, we’re calling on the Government to clarify their current consideration on insurance schemes for festivals, to save further pre-emptive cancellations.

Published: 21 January 2021

Black and white photograph from backstage at a festival. We can see a number of musicians playing on stage from behind, and a large outdoor audience facing inwards.

Government Insurance for Music Festivals a Possibility

In welcome news, Minister for Culture Caroline Dineage confirmed that she is “looking into” possible insurance for music festivals, which would allow them to plan for summer 2021.

Published: 19 January 2021

Photograph of the sun setting over the houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

Major role for MU in Urgent Parliamentary Debate on EU Touring

We received vital coverage on the need for a Musicians' Passport in today’s parliamentary debate. Find out what happened, what our next actions will be, and how you can get involved.

Published: 19 January 2021

Photograph of an accessible entrance sign attached to a brick wall outside a building.

Creating Your Own Access Rider

We recently held an event on “creating your own access rider,” in this article we set out the key learnings for the event – both from artists with personal experience of using access riders, and organisations who work on improving access.

Published: 18 January 2021

Photograph of a woman out on the street, listening to music on her mobile phone.

Members Encouraged to Complete Survey on Live Streaming

Middlesex University are exploring the experiences and expectations of performing musicians regarding live streaming music in the wake of Covid-19 with this short survey.

Published: 15 January 2021

Golden euphonium lies on a brown wooden stage in the light of a spotlight

We Demand Support from the PM for British Musicians Planning to Tour the EU

Our General Secretary, Horace Trubridge, has today written to the Prime Minister highlighting the barriers facing British musicians seeking to tour the EU in the post-lockdown era.

Published: 15 January 2021

Man engrossed in singing into a microphone in a recording studio, he is dressed casually in a hooded jumper and has his arms raised and eyes closed in concentration.

FAC Open Free Series of Events for Music-Artist Entrepreneurs

The Featured Artist Coalition (FAC) is holding a series of “Yeah, but…” free to attend, online, panel events, covering topics from using streaming services to creating a buzz around your work.

Published: 14 January 2021

Photograph of a musician walking, whilst carrying a guitar in a hard case. We can only see the musicians arms and torso, the guitar case is well worn looking.

No ATA Carnet Needed for Touring Between NI and rest of UK

We’ve had confirmation that members based in England, Scotland and Wales do not currently require an ATA Carnet to gig in Northern Ireland, and vice versa.

Published: 14 January 2021

Photograph of Big Ben from across Westminister bridge, traffic is rushing past leaving blurred lights behind.

PM Agrees to MPs Meeting to Discuss Agreement for Touring Musicians

Kevin Brennan MP asked the Prime Minister on behalf of our members, if there would be a meeting for senior MPs to discuss an agreement with the EU for touring musicians – to which he agreed.

Published: 13 January 2021

Photograph of a drum kit, a person sits behind the drum kit, we can just see their legs, arms and the drum sticks frozen in action.

Leak Confirms that Government Rejected EU Offer of Visa-Free Travel for Touring Musicians

We’re angry and alarmed to learn the news that the UK Government rejected an EU offer of visa-free touring by British musicians.

Published: 10 January 2021

Jazz saxophonist performing outdoors at a music festival.

DCMS Select Committee Festivals Inquiry Raises Crucial Issues for MU Members

An evidence session held today as part of the DCMS’ select committee festivals inquiry raised issues such as how the Cultural Recovery Fund does not benefit musicians, Brexit concerns, and the need for a Covid-proof insurance scheme.

Published: 05 January 2021

Photograph of a busker, their head isn't visible but they are wearing blue jeans and holding a plugged in electric guitar. In the background an open guitar case has money collected in it.

Joint Statement on Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea's New Proposals for Busking

The MU has serious concerns over Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea's recently published consultation and its potential effects on busking. Members are encouraged to have their say by responding to the council’s consultation.

Published: 04 January 2021

How Artificial Intelligence Affects Musicians, Music and Copyright

Artificial Intelligence tools have become increasingly prevalent in the creation of recorded and live music in recent years. Will Simpson assesses whether AI is the musician's friend or foe.

Published: 03 January 2021

Kuljit Bhamra: Bhangra Pioneer with a Mission to Introduce Tabla to the Next Generation of Musicians

How instrumentalist, composer and educator Kuljit Bhamra overcame disability to create a rich and diverse music career.

Published: 24 December 2020

Photograph of a violin in a travel case.

Brexit Details for Touring Musicians Unlikely Before End of Transition Period

Even if a Brexit deal is agreed before the transition period ends on Thursday 31 December, it is likely to only give basic essentials, with the potential for further detail.

Published: 21 December 2020

Photograph of two colourful suitcases against a bright yellow background.

Flowchart Guide to Working in the EU from 1 January 2021 Published

Members can now consult the flowchart we have compiled, to help with the increased administration that will be involved when working in Europe from 1 January.

Published: 21 December 2020

A photograph of a retro looking radio against a grey background.

Recorded Background Music Now Permitted in Scottish Hospitality Venues

The Scottish Government have changed their Coronavirus restriction rules to allow recorded background music to be played at hospitality venues throughout out the five tiers.

Published: 16 December 2020

How Disabled Musicians Dealt with the Challenges of the Covid Crisis

From heightened isolation to deeply-held prejudices, disabled musicians have experienced profound challenges during the pandemic. But ingenuity, strong mutual support and online access have helped many to prevail, as Neil Churchman explains.

Published: 15 December 2020

Graphic image includes three brightly coloured squares, one with the text

More Creators and Musicians Called to Give Evidence in Person at Music Streaming Inquiry

Fiona Bevan, Soweto Kinch, and Nile Rodgers will be giving evidence to the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee inquiry into the economics of music streaming.

Published: 04 December 2020

Photograph of a crowded festival audience, outdoors and the sun is shining.

Your Guide to Giving Evidence to the UK Festivals Inquiry

Have your say in the DCMS Select Committee's inquiry into UK music festivals, and how they can be protected in 2021.

Published: 03 December 2020

Photograph of colourful bunting hanging up in the sunshine.

Protect UK Music Festivals in 2021

Have your say in the DCMS Select Committee's inquiry into UK music festivals, and how they can be protected in 2021.

Published: 03 December 2020

Photograph of an American Bald Eagle who has landed on a branch, and is looking out over a woodland of trees.

US Visas – The Biden Years

MU National Organiser Live Performance, Dave Webster, discusses what the future may look like for UK musicians planning on performing in the US under the Biden Administration.

Published: 01 December 2020

Photograph of a live performance taking place, we can just see the stage and a number of set up instruments, with the interesting trousers of one musician.

Welcome U-Turn on Alcohol Sales for Tier 2 Music Venues in England

The Government has announced that alcohol sales will be permitted in music venues in England’s Tier 2 regions, without the need for a substantial meal, provided that the event is ticketed and the audience are seated.

Published: 01 December 2020

Photograph of a musician playing a guitar, the heavy blue light means we can't clearly see the performer.

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

Jess Gillam with her saxophone on the beach

Jess Gillam: Bringing the Saxophone to the Forefront of Classical Music

Saxophonist Jess Gillam has been hailed by classical music critics since her scintillating performance at the Proms.

Published: 29 November 2020

Kojo Samuel in his studio, smiling, sitting next to a guitar and a Korg MS2000 synth

How Becoming a Music Director Took Kojo Samuel to Glasto

From the Sugababes to Stormzy... Music director Kojo Samuel gives us an insight into what the MD job actually entails and how he started working with the stars.

Published: 29 November 2020

Drill rappers Skengdo x AM (Terrell Doyley and Joshua Malinga)

Why Are Drill Rappers Criminalised for Making Music?

Drill music has been demonised in the press, but silencing young, predominantly black musicians is discriminatory and won't stop gang violence.

Published: 27 November 2020

Black and white photograph of an orchestra pit during a theatre performance, we are looking from behind the conductor who is gesturing largely.

New Government Measures Deliver Blow for Live Music in England

The Government’s re-worked three tier system has given us reason for concern, in particular the new cap on capacities for indoor live events under Tiers 1 and 2.

Published: 26 November 2020

Emily Barker with a guitar standing against a bigtree

Emily Barker: a Singer-Songwriter Who Spans Country, Folk and Blues

From haunting theme tunes to groove-smitten Americana, Aussie-born Emily Barker is a prolific singer-songwriter.

Published: 26 November 2020

The Winter Covid-19 Plan and its Impact on Musicians

On Monday 23 November the Prime Minister confirmed that national restrictions in England will come to an end on Wednesday 2 December.

Published: 24 November 2020

Photograph of a number of coloured blocks placed around a black and white photograph of a young girl playing guitar in what appears to be her bedroom. Text reads

Artists Called to Give Evidence in Person at Streaming Inquiry

Musicians Tom Gray, Nadine Shah, Guy Garvey and Ed O’Brien will be giving evidence to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee inquiry into the economics of music streaming.

Published: 20 November 2020

Photograph of an empty stage, looking out from the back towards where the audience would be, with bright lights shining down.

Figures Reveal UK Music Industry’s Pre-Covid £5.8bn Boost to Economy

UK Music’s annual Music By Numbers report reveals the £5.8bn boost to the economy before Covid-19’s catastrophic blow – and renewed calls for Government action to protect the industry.

Published: 18 November 2020

Black and white photograph of a conductors hands, holding a baton over the music stand at the head of an orchestra. The musicians in the background are blurred.

Disability History Month: Music Making and the Fates of Disabled People

Conductor and composer Ben Lunn discusses how we need to celebrate “the disabled musicians and artists who exist,” whilst, “making sure disabled people can live in dignity and safety and are able to pursue whatever profession they desire to.”

Published: 17 November 2020

Calling All Songwriters, Composers and Performers: A #FixStreaming Update

Have your say in the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee inquiry into music streaming – you now have until Friday 11 December to submit your thoughts.

Published: 17 November 2020

Photograph of a ferry leaving a port and heading out to sea, the photograph includes an image of the dock we are looking out to the ferry from.

CITES Survey: Does your Instrument Contain Endangered Species

Help DEFRA check what additional efforts may be required as the end of the transition period approaches, by completing this short survey.

Published: 12 November 2020

Cookies on Musicians' Union

Use your voice

Popular searches

Live Performance News

Music Industry Unites to Save Touring in Europe, Ahead of Crucial Parliament Debate

US Immigration Roll Backs

Free PRS Licences for Small Online Performances of Own Works Announced

Guidance on the PRS Online Event Licensing Tariff

How Musicians Can Help Tackle the E-Waste Mountain

Government Must Support Live Music Following Glastonbury Cancellation

Government Insurance for Music Festivals a Possibility

Major role for MU in Urgent Parliamentary Debate on EU Touring

Creating Your Own Access Rider

Members Encouraged to Complete Survey on Live Streaming

We Demand Support from the PM for British Musicians Planning to Tour the EU

FAC Open Free Series of Events for Music-Artist Entrepreneurs

No ATA Carnet Needed for Touring Between NI and rest of UK

PM Agrees to MPs Meeting to Discuss Agreement for Touring Musicians

Leak Confirms that Government Rejected EU Offer of Visa-Free Travel for Touring Musicians

DCMS Select Committee Festivals Inquiry Raises Crucial Issues for MU Members

Joint Statement on Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea's New Proposals for Busking

How Artificial Intelligence Affects Musicians, Music and Copyright

Kuljit Bhamra: Bhangra Pioneer with a Mission to Introduce Tabla to the Next Generation of Musicians

Brexit Details for Touring Musicians Unlikely Before End of Transition Period

Flowchart Guide to Working in the EU from 1 January 2021 Published

Recorded Background Music Now Permitted in Scottish Hospitality Venues

How Disabled Musicians Dealt with the Challenges of the Covid Crisis

More Creators and Musicians Called to Give Evidence in Person at Music Streaming Inquiry

Your Guide to Giving Evidence to the UK Festivals Inquiry

Protect UK Music Festivals in 2021

US Visas – The Biden Years

Welcome U-Turn on Alcohol Sales for Tier 2 Music Venues in England

Performing Arts Guidance for New Tier System in England Released

Jess Gillam: Bringing the Saxophone to the Forefront of Classical Music

How Becoming a Music Director Took Kojo Samuel to Glasto

Why Are Drill Rappers Criminalised for Making Music?

New Government Measures Deliver Blow for Live Music in England

Emily Barker: a Singer-Songwriter Who Spans Country, Folk and Blues

The Winter Covid-19 Plan and its Impact on Musicians

Artists Called to Give Evidence in Person at Streaming Inquiry

Figures Reveal UK Music Industry’s Pre-Covid £5.8bn Boost to Economy

Disability History Month: Music Making and the Fates of Disabled People

Calling All Songwriters, Composers and Performers: A #FixStreaming Update

CITES Survey: Does your Instrument Contain Endangered Species