skip to main content

Boost Diversity in the Music Industry with UK Music’s Survey

UK Music, the voice of the UK’s commercial music industry, has launched a Music Industry Workforce Diversity Survey to help bring about “major change at pace”.

Published: 17 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a small child sat learning the Ukulele
The globally respected survey comes at a crucial time for the industry in the wake of #BlackOutTuesday, #TheShowMustBePaused and protests in support of Black Lives Matter.

The survey tracks progress to boost diversity and inclusion in the UK’s music industry that contributes £5.2 billion a year to the UK economy and sustains 190,000 jobs.

UK Music, the umbrella body that represents the commercial music business, and of which the MU is a part, said that the globally respected survey comes at a crucial time for the industry in the wake of #BlackOutTuesday, #TheShowMustBePaused and protests in support of Black Lives Matter.

The survey is open to everyone – but will be more relevant to members who run small businesses or labels and employ people, or orchestral player,s than it will be to freelancers who play solo or in bands.

It will take around five-minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous, confidential and managed in accordance with GDPR legislation.

Take UK Music’s survey now.

The survey will give critical insights

Led by UK Music’s Diversity Taskforce and its chair Ammo Talwar MBE, the survey collates data from across the music business including studios, management agencies, music publishers, major and independent record labels, music licensing companies and the live music sector.

Launched in 2016, the findings of the survey give the music industry, the Government and other stakeholders a critical insight into where improvements are needed regarding diversity and inclusion – and highlights where positive change is already under way.

UK Music will publish the results of the survey later this year as part of a report. The survey results are published every two years.

Help shape the new voices of the music industry

UK Music Diversity Taskforce Chair Ammo Talwar said:

“Now is not the time for silence! We need major change at pace with impact in the music industry. This survey helps to kickstart the change we all want and deserve.

“Our diversity is the source of our greatest strength. Help us shape the new voices in the music industry by being part of the change.

“Vision without evidence and action is a dream. Action without vision is a nightmare. Help shape the future of the music industry to ensure diversity sits front, centre and back.”

Take UK Music’s survey now.

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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action