Judy Stakee’s Secrets to Writing a Song

Discover Judy Stakee’s secrets to songwriting success in our highlights from her recent “It all starts with a song!” workshop at MU HQ.

Published: 14 September 2016 | 12:00 AM Updated: 31 March 2023 | 11:38 AM

This is a member-only area

Join now to access our expert advice and numerous member-only benefits.

Join now

Sign in now for access

Username

Password:

Stay signed in on this computer

Forgot password or username? Reset

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

Continue reading

Person walking into a venue with a cello case on their back.

Musical Instrument Certificates to Remain Free of Charge

Following results from a recent consultation by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Musical Instrument Certificates will remain free of charge for musicians travelling with instruments containing endangered materials.

Published: 10 February 2026

MU Welcomes EU Visa Policy Strategy Paper

The European Commission has released a new strategy paper on finding solutions to EU touring barriers for artists.

Published: 10 February 2026

Close up of an acoustic guitar in a meadow at sunset.

LGBT+ History Month: Navigating Top Surgery as a Freelance Trans Musician

To mark LGBT+ History Month 2026, folk musician, activist and MU member Maddie Morris reflects on getting top surgery while freelancing — from fundraising and touring to recovery, music-making, and mental health.

Published: 05 February 2026

A protest against ICE on the streets of Minnesota.

MU Condemns Use of Sonic Weapons in the US

Reports are circulating that the National Guard is using Long-Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs) in Minnesota.

Published: 04 February 2026

A sign on a brick wall on the outside of a building that says

Call for Research Participants: Disabled Musicians’ Access to Glasgow Venues

A new PhD study is seeking participants to help explore disabled musicians’ access to live music venues in UNESCO City of Music Glasgow.