skip to main content

First Day of MU Delegate Conference

Today saw the first day of the MU Delegate Conference 2021, which for the first time ever is being held largely online due to the pandemic.

Published: 20 July 2021 | 3:06 PM Updated: 08 December 2022 | 11:59 AM
Photograph from the MU Conference in 2019, focusing on a large white speakers podium with
Motions passed today included expanding the MU maternity/paternity grant for multiple births and campaigning for a Universal Basic Income. Photo credit: Musicians' Union

Despite the unusual set up, motions were moved as passionately as ever and delegates had the opportunity to ask questions about the work of the MU over the past two years.

The first motion passed asked the MU to publish more webinars on its website, which is something that we have already been looking into and agree would be a great addition to training for members.

Other motions passed today included expanding the MU maternity/paternity grant for multiple births, campaigning for a Universal Basic Income, the promotion of music education, refurbishing existing venues, and creating best practice guidance for engaging support acts.

Good debates were also had on issues such as mental health and wellbeing support, and the casualisation of the music education workforce.

Conference was addressed via video by The General Secretary of the TUC, Frances O’Grady, Benoit Machuel from the International Federation of Musicians, Peter Leathem, Chief Executive of PPL and Jo Stevens MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

Catch up with the highlights on Twitter, where we’re sharing key moments as they happen.

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

MU delegates and members of our sister creative unions on the steps of Caird Hall.

MU Delegates Champion Fair Work, Cultural Rights and Island Connectivity at STUC Congress 2026

Last week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) with MU delegates who supported a range of topics including Fair Work for freelancers, music as a human right, international solidarity and why ferries serving the Scottish islands are vital to cultural workers and the economy.

Published: 28 April 2026

Read more about MU Delegates Champion Fair Work, Cultural Rights and Island Connectivity at STUC Congress 2026
Charlene, Sinead and three members who attended the meeting.

MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians

MU members met this week for an open discussion on working life in Belfast, highlighting how rising parking costs, limited access to venues and late-night working conditions are placing increasing pressure on musicians and undermining its UNESCO City of Music status.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about MU Belfast Meeting Highlights Impact of City Parking Costs on Musicians
Shot of a large crowd at a small, grassroots music concert. The band on stage are in silhouette against purple, blue and orange lights.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), supported by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has awarded its first wave of grants to 26 artists across 211 gigs, helping deliver fair pay and access in the grassroots live sector.

Published: 23 April 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces First Phase Artists