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

Large, glass curved exterior of the BBC building HQ. its logo is on the front in white.

Email Your MP: Back Workers, Back the BBC!

The BBC is the single biggest employer and engager of MU members in the UK. Invite your MP to our drop-in event in Parliament to learn more and show their support for the BBC's music future!

Published: 11 November 2026

Read more about Email Your MP: Back Workers, Back the BBC!
Musician playing acoustic guitar, facing the setting sun and a crowd, performing at a festival. Flags and fairy lights are out of focus in the background.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT) has announced the 49 artists receiving support in its latest funding round, following the expansion of the scheme to help more UK artists navigate the ongoing cost-of-touring crisis.

Published: 06 November 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists
Black background with wooden stick figures placed on top in different colours, some also represent wheelchair users.

Attitude is Everything Publish the State of Access Report 2026

This week, Attitude is Everything published the State of Access Report 2026, the charity’s first major research report in eight years, revealing persistent and widespread barriers to accessibility across the UK music and live events sector, despite signs of progress in access provision.

Published: 05 November 2026

Read more about Attitude is Everything Publish the State of Access Report 2026