skip to main content

Edinburgh’s Studio 24 Closes its Doors

Studio 24 has closed its doors after 25 years, with the development of residential flats next to the venue. The Musicians’ Union continues to call and campaign for Agent of Change in Scotland.

Published: 30 May 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

Edinburgh's live music scene suffered a disappointing blow as Studio 24, one of the city's best known alternative music venues, closed its doors after 25 years. 

The venue had been in ongoing disputes with neighbours and licensing standard officers since the development of residential flats next to the venue. 

Unfortunately, despite the recent amends to the local licensing policy, which relax the previous draconian 'inaudibility clause', the venue continued to face problems in this vein. 

The Musicians’ Union (MU) continues to call and campaign for the introduction of the Agent of Change principle which, if implemented, would have provided some much needed protection for Studio 24 and Edinburgh's live music scene.

Read more about the closure via the Edinburgh Evening News.

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

Brighton pier at sunrise.

Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025

The MU will once again be present at The Great Escape Festival, supporting members and engaging with key industry topics between Wednesday 14 and Friday 16 May in Brighton.

Published: 08 May 2025

Read more about Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025
Exterior long shot of Caird Hall, Dundee., where Congress takes place.

MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025

Last week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) with MU Delegates Ronnie MacNiven, Ben Lunn and Calum Baird, who discussed the value of music education, fair work for musicians, the need for stability of the arts, and more. All of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 06 May 2025

Read more about MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025