We're delighted that our involvement in DCMS working groups coupled with our intense lobbying has persuaded the government that it’s time to begin to reintroduce live music. Photo credit: Shutterstock
The Government’s announcement means that events in England such as an outdoor version of Glyndebourne’s opera festival will be able to take place this summer. Moving forward, theatres will be able to perform outdoors and sell tickets.
Outdoor performances will be socially distanced, with reduced audience sizes and online ticketing. Indoor performances will also be piloted to trial audiences with social distancing in place, with the aim to get these back up and from as soon as possible.
There will also be funding of scientific studies that help in understanding and mitigating the risks around specific music acts such as singing, woodwind and brass. And the Government are taking action to protect venues from demolition or change of use through revision of the planning process.
New guidance for people who work in performing arts, including arts organisations, venue operators and participants has been released on the Government's website. We'll be publishing further details on how it affects musicians and their workplaces in due course.
Sector specific finance package still needed
Our General Secretary, Horace Trubridge, welcomed the news – however he warned that financial support for the workforce is still urgently needed:
“We are delighted that our involvement in DCMS working groups coupled with our intense lobbying has persuaded the government that it’s time to begin to reintroduce live music.
“The safety of our members is paramount so outdoor performances will come first whilst pilots of indoor live performance are carried out and scientific research continues.
“Our sector needs more, specifically a sector specific finance package for the workforce to sustain them until they are able to work at full capacity and this will be the focus of our lobbying going forward.”
Take action now
Please continue to use your voice, as you can see from the Government’s new measures, it really does work.
Ask the Chancellor Rishi Sunak to protect all self-employed workers, and ensure no musician is left behind.
You can use our template letter if you're not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too. Personal stories make all the difference.
Write to Rishi now.