skip to main content

A Generous Donation from Jazz Legend and MU Member

Trombonist Malcolm Griffiths – who sadly passed away in January 2021 – left a generous donation of instruments from his own collection, which have now been passed on to the Kent Music instrument library to inspire a future generation of musicians.

Published: 01 October 2021 | 12:54 PM Updated: 06 October 2021 | 3:31 PM
Close up photograph of a tenor trombone.
Kent Music will be making sure the instruments are passed on to passionate and talented young players to help them on their musical journey. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Malcolm Griffiths had a career of over five decades, and through the 1960s and 70s was at the core of the British jazz scene and forefront of an exciting new generation of trombonists. He was well known as a talented and memorable improviser, and worked with many luminaries of the British jazz scene.

Griffiths' donation included a drum kit, an upright piano, and (of course) four trombones. Now a part of the Kent Music instrument library, Kent Music will be making sure these instruments are passed on to passionate and talented young players to help them on their musical journey.

Speaking on the donation, the Musicians’ Union Head of Membership Wasim Yunus said:

“The MU is humbled by Malcolm’s generosity, and we’re privileged to have played a part in keeping alive his legacy; a legacy of inspiring and educating generations of musicians in and around Kent.”

You can find out more about Malcolm Griffiths and the Kent Music instrument library on Kent Music’s website.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

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

Continue reading

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre
Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales
Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers
Tom standing in front of the door to Lio London cabaret (formerly the Café de Paris), in October, 2024.

Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)

Tom O’Connor, a talented drummer who performed in the West End, on multiple cruise ships and even at Queen Elizabeth’s garden party, passed away at the age of 89 in March 2026. He was a lifelong member of the Musicians’ Union for 68 years, having joined in 1958.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)