skip to main content

All Restrictions in England Due to End on 19 July 2021

Following the announcement from the Prime Minister that all Covid-19 restrictions are set to end in England on Monday 19 July, we discuss how this is likely to affect musicians – and how steps must be taken to make sure members feel secure returning to work.

Published: 06 July 2021 | 12:21 PM
Photograph of a hand spraying disinfectant spray on to a tissue and using it to sanitize a keyboard.
The MU will also be liaising with employers, engagers and fixers around plans for the reduction or removal of social distancing requirements. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Prime Minister yesterday announced his intention to end all Covid-19 restrictions on 19 July, with this to be confirmed on 12 July. All venues and businesses seem set to reopen, with the one-metre plus social distancing rule also to be scrapped, and no legal limits to be set on audience numbers indoors or outdoors.

This is great news for music events of any kind – although the test, track and trace system will stay in use and so could still impact some musicians who have checked in at a certain venue and are asked to isolate. The Government is, however, looking into whether self-isolation will continue to be necessary for those who have had both Coronavirus jabs.

Border restrictions will remain for the time being, as will the traffic light system for international travel, so musicians should be aware that touring abroad may still be problematic. We will update members with any further detail or information as it becomes available in the coming days.

Ensuring members feel secure in returning to work

The MU will also be liaising with employers, engagers and fixers around plans for the reduction or removal of social distancing requirements to ensure that members feel secure in returning to all aspects of their work. Members may also still find our workplace advice for health and safety around Covid-19 useful.

Members who are shielding and would like any advice or assistance should contact their Regional Office.

Plans for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are due to be announced in the coming days and we will be updating members accordingly through the MU website, our emails and our social media channels.

#KeepMusicLive

Can a UBI keep music live?

The idea of a universal basic income has been around for centuries. Now, the MU and many others believe its time has come.

Can a UBI keep music live?

Continue reading

Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician
An empty conference table with chairs and microphones.

Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live

MU members can watch the FIM International Freelance Conference live online on 21-22 October 2026. Tune in to our livestream to hear international speakers discuss pay, rights, organising, discrimination, portfolio careers and the future of freelance work.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live
A theatre pit at the front bottom of the stage, full of musicians lit by lamps, as the audience takes their seats before the performance.

Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre

Whether you're new to theatre or an experienced composer or sound designer, MU Music Writers' Advisory Board Chair Sarah Sayeed shares practical advice on contracts, fees, licensing and protecting the value of your work.

Published: 13 October 2026

Read more about Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre