The research brings together disabled musicians, venue staff, and industry professionals to investigate the realities of performing in live music spaces across the city. Image credit: Shutterstock.
A new PhD research project is inviting participants to help build a clearer picture of how accessible Glasgow’s live music venues are for disabled musicians.
Working in partnership with the Musicians’ Union, the research examines the experiences of disabled musicians, as well as those who face access barriers but may not identify as disabled.
Glasgow’s status as a UNESCO City of Music makes it a vital case study for understanding how venues can better support performers and ensure that the city’s music culture is inclusive for everyone.
Help remove access barriers in venues
The research brings together disabled musicians, venue staff, and industry professionals to investigate the realities of performing in live music spaces across the city. By gathering first-hand accounts, the project aims to highlight where access is working well and where improvements are needed.
The findings will contribute to wider conversations about equity in the music industry and help shape recommendations for more accessible performance environments.
Eligibility and how to take part
The study is seeking musicians who meet the following criteria:
- You are aged 18 or over
- You identify as a disabled musician or experience access barriers when performing in venues
- You have performed at least once in a live music venue in Glasgow
The project recognises that not everyone who encounters access challenges identifies as disabled, and welcomes participants across this spectrum of experience.
The deadline to express interest is 13 February 2026 at 5pm, with interviews taking place by the end of February.
To take part or find out more, email Samantha Barr at s.barr.1@research.gla.ac.uk using the subject line “Musician Research Participant.”