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LGBT+ musicians may face particular issues because of their sexuality or gender. Homophobia, biphobia and transphobia, being asked to conceal their sexuality or gender, difficultly touring in countries that are hostile to or that criminalise LGBT+ people and lack of representation are issues that LGBT+ musicians may face.

Guidance & resources

Orchestras & theatre

Screened auditions

A method to promote fairer opportunities for musicians from all backgrounds to earn a position in an orchestra.

Read more about Screened auditions

LGBT+ news & features

Explore the updates for LGBT+ music artists.

John Shortell wearing a Musicians' Union t-shirt with rainbow logo, holding a flag, during a Pride march in 2023. He is joined by colleagues and other members who are performing as they walk.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List

The MU congratulates John Shortell, Head of ED&I, on being named one of IQ Magazine’s outstanding queer professionals in the international live music business. John is a driving force for change, and the Union is exceptionally proud to have him working on behalf of musicians.

Published: 03 July 2025

Read more about MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List
Exterior of the Middlesex Guildhall in London, location of the UK Supreme Court.

UK Supreme Court Rules on Legal Definition of Woman in the Equality Act

The Court has ruled that 'woman' in the Equality Act refers to biological women, excluding trans women with gender recognition certificates. The MU is urgently seeking information on what this means for trans members, and encourages anyone facing discrimination to contact their regional office.

Published: 17 April 2025

Read more about UK Supreme Court Rules on Legal Definition of Woman in the Equality Act

Keychange Announces 2025 Cohort for Talent Leadership Programme

Keychange, a movement dedicated to addressing underrepresentation in music, has announced the new participants in its 2025 Talent Leadership Programme. The cohort, which includes the MU’s own ED&I Officer Diljeet Bhachu, will collaborate to drive transformative change within the industry.

Published: 25 March 2025

Read more about Keychange Announces 2025 Cohort for Talent Leadership Programme
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Representing and advocating on behalf of LGBT+ musicians

Get involved with the MU's work on lobbying for an LGBT+ inclusive education, the end of abuses to LGBT+ people internationally, and a fair and equal representation.

Join our LGBT+ Member Network

Our network is a space where people with shared identities can connect, network and make positive change across the MU and the music industry. The network ensures that the voices of LGBT+ members are heard, and that opportunities for activism and leadership are created. 

Join our network if you identify as LGBT+.  

Join the LGBT+ Network

Representing and advocating on behalf of LGBT+ musicians

Allyship

CN Lester

You don’t need any special skills to support trans colleagues

CN LesterMulti-genre musician, writer, activist
John Shortell

At the MU we lobby on an LGBT+ inclusive music education, the end of abuses to LGBT+ people internationally and a fair and equal representation

John ShortellMU Head of Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion
Patricia Yates

Art without progression and adaptation stagnates and dies

Patricia YatesProfessional Femme Tenor (she/her)
Henry Newbury

With MU membership on my side I’m beyond excited for the future

Henry NewburyPride's Got Talent Music 2019 Winner

Organisations we work with