skip to main content

Inspire Works Uses ACE Funding to Launch New Series of Drumming Workshops

You may remember Inspire Works from our blog, Leading Live Music Workshops Online, in which their co-founder Mike Simpson talked about his own personal experience of moving his teaching to a virtual space.

Published: 20 May 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Drummer playing professional drum set
Drumming workshops can reduce stress, boost the immune system and improve the mood and creativity. Photo credit: Shutterstock

And the great news is, Inspire Works have now been able to expand their online offering thanks to funding from the Arts Council England COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund.

They will now be running a daily world-music workshop at 2:00 pm each weekday, for early years to key stage three students. You can find out more about their interactive YouTube workshops here.

They will also be running HealthRHYTHMS Workshops for adults from 2 June onwards. These workshops have been proven to reduce stress, boost the immune system and improve the mood and creativity. Find out more and sign up on Inspire Works’ website.

Want more advice on moving your teaching practice online during the Covid-19 pandemic? See our advice page for guidance.

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

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre
Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales
Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers
Tom standing in front of the door to Lio London cabaret (formerly the Café de Paris), in October, 2024.

Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)

Tom O’Connor, a talented drummer who performed in the West End, on multiple cruise ships and even at Queen Elizabeth’s garden party, passed away at the age of 89 in March 2026. He was a lifelong member of the Musicians’ Union for 68 years, having joined in 1958.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)