Empowering Orchestral Musicians: Webinar Recording Available

This webinar, exclusive for MU members, uses recent campaigning at Welsh National Opera as a case study to explore how empowering orchestral musicians in the workplace can drive change — serving as a practical introduction to workplace activism in the sector.

Published: 30 April 2025 | 7:23 PM Updated: 12 August 2025 | 11:40 AM

Close up of violin players on stage. — Hear from campaign and industry experts Amy Till (WNO) and Sinead McCarney (the MU). Photo: Shutterstock.

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Arts funding

Reverse the cuts, fund the arts

Arts Council England has made major cuts in public funding to arts organisations. The UK's music sector needs more investment to keep it world leading and protect the working people at its heart.

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Silhouette of an orchestra on a white background.

David Rimbault: What Inclusive Orchestras Could Be - And Why We Must Get There

Ahead of our October drop-in sessions for members interested in exploring the 10-Point Plan for inclusive recruitment in orchestras, RLPO violinist and MU steward David Rimbault shares his personal reflections on why the sector must act now to remain relevant to both musicians and audiences alike.

Published: 30 September 2025

Professional singers rehearsing on stage holding sheet music.

The MU Welcomes Two New Stewards for BBC Singers and Freelancers

These new appointments mark a significant step in strengthening support for both BBC Singers and freelance choral musicians, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights protected.

Published: 25 September 2025

A closeup of two violinists playing as part of an orchestra.

MU, BLiM and ABO Launch Year Two of Inclusive Recruitment Plan for UK Orchestras and Choirs

The MU has partnered with BLiM and ABO to launch the second year of the Hiring and Recruitment 10 Point Action Plan. The plan aims to drive change for more inclusive recruitment across the UK’s professional orchestral and choral sectors.

Published: 01 September 2025

Five orchestra members sat at a bus stop with ‘Keep Northern Ballet Live’ t-shirts and wearing Shakepeare masks as part of our demo in May last year.

TUC Shares Solidarity with Musicians at Northern Ballet

Trades Union Congress (TUC) Regional Secretary Dave Pike has shared a video message in support of musicians affected by ongoing issues at Northern Ballet.

Published: 15 August 2025

Musicians playing string instruments as part of BBC Symphony Orchestra.

BBC Performing Groups Become First Regional Contract Orchestras to Achieve Tutti Salary of Over £40k

Following the acceptance of a recent pay offer, the BBC Performing Groups will be the first regional contract orchestras to achieve a Tutti salary of over £40k.

Published: 11 August 2025

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