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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

LGBT+ news & features

Explore the updates for LGBT+ music artists.

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
Group of diverse women sat talking around a table, making notes with paper and laptops, smiling as they network and share ideas.

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

Utako Toyama for LGBT+ History Month: “Sharing Music from an LGBT+ Perspective Allows Others to Connect”

Utako is a multi-award-winning composer and MU member who promotes diversity, equality, and world peace through her music. In this guest blog, she discusses why visibility and allyship is important not just in the music industry, but for society as a whole.

Published: 17 February 2025

Read more about Utako Toyama for LGBT+ History Month: “Sharing Music from an LGBT+ Perspective Allows Others to Connect”

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

Organisations we work with