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Contract advice from the MU

If you've been offered a music business agreement - whether that's a publishing agreement, a music manager contract, a recording contract, or something else - it’s important to understand what you're signing up for.

The MU will get a specialist solicitor to take a look at the contract, check it works for you, and provide practical advice and guidance to help you negotiate better terms. Our specialist contract advice is provided exclusively for MU members.

MU members can access the Contract Advisory Service at no extra cost – granting up to an hour of our specialist solicitor’s time, providing free UK contract law advice for musicians.

To make use of this service, please contact the MU.

Looking for employment contract legal advice?

MU members can also access specialist employment advice. For any small business, contract advice is an essential step towards a fair and fulfilling career – but it's even more vital for musicians.

If you’re looking for free legal advice on an employment contract, find out how to apply for our Employment Advice & Assistance scheme.

MU Standard contracts

Music business

Specimen Agreements

Before you seek business contract advice, browse our range of example agreements for doing music business.

Read more about Specimen Agreements
TV, film and advertising

Specimen Sync Licences

Templates to help you negotiate synchronisation deals and agree appropriate terms for the use of your music

Read more about Specimen Sync Licences

Employment Contracts

Use our UK employment contract advice resource to find out more about employment contracts and the conditions you should be wary of.

Read more about Employment Contracts

The world of music can be a complicated and daunting place at times. The contract advice service is so incredibly valuable, and I am so grateful that the MU are there to support people like me.

Luke GittinsIndependent singer-songwriter

Being only 13 years old, I joined the MU alongside my brother (aged 11) as soon as we began to play live and record albums. I certainly didn’t realise that behind the music there’s a whole ‘business’. It’s great to have the MU only a call away.

Maddy Chassar-HeskethComposer

The MU has been invaluable to me! I’ve managed to negotiate better pay, get myself out of some tricky situations, and met some awesome musicians that I’ve ended up collaborating with.

Amy Fitz DoyleySinger-songwriter

After working with two labels I made a decision to be an independent artist. It’s been useful in many ways. I can get the MU to go over contracts before signing anything.

Lornnah StewartSinger-songwriter

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

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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.

Contact the MU