skip to main content

List of Tiers in England Announced by the Government

Members in England can now find out which tier will apply to them when lockdown measures are lifted on Wednesday 2 December, and check it against our advice for musicians under the different levels.

Published: 26 November 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of an old fashioned map of England, focusing around Manchester.
The MU has put together a guide detailing how musicians in England will be affected in each of the tiers. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Government has now announced which Coronavirus tiers will apply to English regions when the lockdown comes to an end on 2 December 2020.

The vast majority of regions are in tiers 2 or 3, which have fairly strict restrictions.

The MU has put together a guide detailing how musicians in England will be affected in each of the tiers, though we are seeking urgent clarification from the Government on some issues.

Please check which tier you are in on the Government’s website and then check our advice for your tier.

Be sure your voice is heard

Please take our latest Covid-19 impact survey so that we can directly challenge the Government’s claim that the gaps in financial support have almost all been plugged.

No musician should be left behind, help us help musicians by taking our quick survey now.

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

Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force