skip to main content

BBC Introducing Live Festival Includes Musicians’ Union Takeover Panel

BBC Introducing Live at Tobacco Docks is a new three-day music festival, hosting over 100 masterclasses, workshops and panel discussions – and featuring over 250 speakers from across the music industry, including representatives from the MU.

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

BBC Introducing Live at Tobacco Docks is a new three-day music festival, hosting over 100 masterclasses, workshops and panel discussions – and featuring over 250 speakers from across the music industry, including representatives from the MU.

If you’re attending, then make sure you stop by the MU stand to meet with representatives and ask for any advice on your career and protecting your rights.

Tickets for the event are still available on the BBC Introducing Live website.

Panel discussions

You can also catch MU representatives talking at, and chairing, a number of events across the weekend.

MU Equalities, Diversity & Inclusion Official John Shortell will be discussing ‘Creating an Inclusive Industry: Taking Action on Equality and Accessibility’ at 10:15 am on Friday 9 November.

Alongside a panel of other industry experts, John will be examining key issues around gender, diversity and accessibility.

And MU London Official Sam Jordan will talking about what you need to know to get gigs and play live on the ‘Get This Show on the Road!’ panel at 3:45 pm on Saturday 10 November.

The Musicians’ Union Takeover: Don’t Let the Bastards Get You Down

The MU will also be leading a takeover panel discussion on how collective action can make a difference, as a community of over 30,000 musicians across the UK.

From the #MeToo movement and the MU’s work to combat sexual harassment in the music industry, to mental health, fair pay, protecting venues, and making sure musicians can work in the EU post-Brexit – the panel will explore the big issues and how the MU can help rising artists.

The panel will be chaired by MU Campaigns & Social Media Official Maddy Radcliff, and will take place at 12:15 pm on Saturday 10 November.

Find us in the Help Musicians UK space in the North Vaults, where you can also find wellbeing workshops and a relaxation area.

Panellists include:

  • Anna Neale – singer/songwriter, composer, session vocalist, voice over artist and lecturer in music
  • Robin Rimbaud also known as Scanner – composer, artist and sound designer
  • Alex Mann – External Affairs Manager at Help Musicians UK
  • Cherise Adams-Burnett – musician, vocalist and

For information on accessibility, strobe lighting, transport and other FAQs about the festival see the the BBC Introducing Live website.

Find out more about the MU’s current campaigns and how you can get involved – from touring visas for musicians post-Brexit, to celebrating the work of orchestral players.

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

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
A bright orange sunrise bursting through clouds over a calm sea.

MU Reiterates Call for Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza

The MU supports TUC’s recent statement on the conflict in Gaza and calls again for an immediate and permanent ceasefire. Members who may have suffered harassment, discrimination or lost work are also reminded to contact their regional office for advice and support.

Published: 15 April 2025

Read more about MU Reiterates Call for Immediate and Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza
A stack of Kayla's 'Fractures' albums, signed and ready to be posted.

Member’s Voice: Kayla Painter on the Rewards of Self-Releasing Music

In this blog, MU member, educator, producer, and electronic musician Kayla Painter shares her experience of self-releasing music. Following the success of her album launch last year, she explores the ups and downs of the DIY route, offering invaluable firsthand advice to other members.

Published: 15 April 2025

Read more about Member’s Voice: Kayla Painter on the Rewards of Self-Releasing Music