skip to main content

Assistant General Secretary Naomi Pohl on The Musician Behind the Moment

Musicians’ Union Assistant General Secretary Naomi Pohl talks about The Musician Behind the Moment, on BBC Radio Ulster’s Classical Connections with John Toal.

Published: 15 May 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

Musicians’ Union Assistant General Secretary Naomi Pohl talks about The Musician Behind the Moment, on BBC Radio Ulster’s Classical Connections with John Toal.

“If you’re not someone who regularly goes to classical concerts, maybe you think that there isn’t a value in orchestral music for you.

"But I think what people don’t realise is that actually orchestras increasingly fulfil a social function aside from just performance.

"They’re also doing a lot of outreach work in care homes, dementia homes, schools, education environments, and they’re also performing on soundtracks that we all love...

These orchestral musicians are having a significant impact on people’s lives”

– Naomi Pohl

Listen to the full interview from 1:26:00 via BBC iPlayer Radio

The Musician Behind the Moment

The Musician Behind the Moment campaign highlights the value of orchestral musicians across the UK.

Explore four musicians' inspiring stories, and share your #MUmoment.

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

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