skip to main content

Further Clarification for Performances and Rehearsals of Non-Professional Musicians in England

The Government has updated their Covid-19 guidance for those working in the performing arts, which clarifies that non-professional musicians can perform and rehearse in Covid-secure venues in England.

Published: 28 August 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a saxophonist performing outdoors in a park setting.
Organisers should review the Government’s Performing Arts guidance in full and ensure any planned activity is compliant before it goes ahead. Photo credit: Shutterstock

New guidance from the Government confirms that there are no set limits on the numbers who can be involved in planned non-professional activity taking place outside and/or in a Covid-secure venues in England.

It does however specify that organisations must ensure an appropriate COVID-19 risk assessment is carried out and that the number of individuals involved are able to be socially distanced at all times. Organisers should review the Government’s Performing Arts guidance in full and ensure any planned activity is compliant before it goes ahead.

We expressed concern at previous guidance, which seemed to leave amateur choirs, brass bands and other ensembles with less rights to meet, rehearse and perform – whilst group meetings such as non-professional sports team were allowed.

Read our latest FAQs on the easing of Covid-19 restrictions for the performing arts.

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

Young Black college-age woman, sat at a kitchen  table with headphones on, looking at a laptop screen in concentration, next to a stack of books and notes.

What Could New V Levels Mean for Music Education?

MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explores what the government's reform of level 3 technical qualifications could mean for music education, including its impact on access, progression and existing courses.

Published: 16 June 2026

Read more about What Could New V Levels Mean for Music Education?
Last year's parade, MU members holding a large banner that says

March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2026

Members are invited to join the MU on Saturday 11 July for the Durham Miners' Gala -  the world’s largest celebration of trade union values, community spirit, and working-class life.

Published: 15 June 2026

Read more about March With the MU at Durham Miners’ Gala 2026
A bag full of an assortment of musical instruments in a school classroom.

MU Addresses MPs on Music Education

The MU addressed MPs on music education, warning that stagnant funding, university course closures and worsening conditions for teachers are putting the future of music education at risk. The General Secretary also followed up on her meeting with Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Published: 15 June 2026

Read more about MU Addresses MPs on Music Education