skip to main content

Live Performance Risk Assessment Advice for Freelancers Released

We’ve put together new guidance for freelance musicians, to help musicians prepare themselves for when venues to begin reopening.

Published: 12 June 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
musicians performing on stage
This guidance is to assist members in the things they need to consider when getting back to work. Photo credit: Shutterstock

These new advice pages are intended to give a basic guide to what should be done in buildings or areas you are asked to work in during the Covid-19 pandemic. We've also published advice on your personal health & safety, as well as a personal Risk Assesment document

MU National Organiser Live Performance, Dave Webster explains:

“As the Government begin to tentatively ease lockdown it’s important that when venues do start to reopen for business the correct risk assessments are in place for our members.

“We understand the need to earn again is also a priority for musicians, however, It is also of the utmost importance that they can feel safe.

“Whilst there is no indication yet as to when venues may reopen, these guidelines (which are subject to change) are there to assist members in the things they need to consider when getting back to work.”

Read the new advice page on health and safety for live venues.

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

Three wooden blocks with red icons painted on them.

MU Concerned by New EU Customs Fees for Artists Selling Merchandise

A new EU customs charge on low-value parcels is creating additional costs and administrative challenges for musicians selling merchandise directly to fans in Europe. The MU will work to ensure musicians affected by the new legislation are represented at a stakeholder consultation later this year.

Published: 31 July 2026

Read more about MU Concerned by New EU Customs Fees for Artists Selling Merchandise
A brick wall with the flags of Spain and Gibraltar painted on it, overlapping each other.

Spain-Gibraltar Border Changes: What the New Agreement Means for Musicians

New arrangements between Gibraltar and Spain will remove routine border checks for people crossing by land. While the agreement does not change existing rights to work in Spain or the EU, any time spent in Gibraltar will count towards musicians’ 90-day allowance for the Schengen area.

Published: 30 July 2026

Read more about Spain-Gibraltar Border Changes: What the New Agreement Means for Musicians
A pink sign being held up that says

Music Qualifications Reform Debated in House of Lords

Peers from across the political spectrum raised concerns about the Government’s proposed reforms to level 3 music qualifications, with ministers confirming that existing qualifications will remain in place until at least 2030 and announcing a new creative advisory board to help shape the reforms.

Published: 28 July 2026

Read more about Music Qualifications Reform Debated in House of Lords