skip to main content

MU Demands Financial Assistance for Freelance Musicians from the Government

The MU is calling on the Government to account for the urgent needs of its members in the coming weeks due to the impact of the Omicron variant and the subsequent rise in Covid-19 cases.

Published: 21 December 2021 | 4:09 PM
A drummer is playing on a kit in their home, a laptop computer set up near them is recording the performance.
The lack of provision for freelance workers leaves the majority of MU members uncertain about their future. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Recent developments are already having a noticeable impact on musicians’ ability to work, and the number of no-shows and cancellations in the live performance arena is becoming particularly alarming.

Whilst the Union welcomes the Treasury’s announcement of £1bn in financial support for businesses in the hospitality and leisure industries, the lack of provision for freelance workers leaves the majority of MU members uncertain about their future.

Early results of the Union’s latest research reports that 86% of musicians have had work cancelled due to the surge in cases related to the Omicron Covid-19 variant. Plus 41% of musicians state that they expect to earn under 25% of their usual income during the next two months, while the results show 75% expect to earn less than 50% of their regular income.

It is crucial the Government recognises the economic abyss

Horace Trubridge, MU General Secretary, said:

“This is a particularly busy time for our members and many musicians will have been relying on the festive period and the new year to provide much-needed funds following the devastating effects of lockdown and the well-publicised difficulties.

“It is absolutely crucial to their survival that the Government recognises the economic abyss that our world-class players, performers, writers and teachers are facing. They need support and they need it now.”

Illustrating the gaps in support

Today’s call also follows the letter sent by the Union to the Chancellor last Friday, which underlined the need for immediate financial support for freelance musicians seriously affected by the new outbreak.

The Union’s message to Chancellor Rishi Sunak illustrated the gaps in support that members experienced during the initial phases of the pandemic, and the urgent need to provide targeted financial support in response to the new Omicron Covid-19 variant.

Furthermore, the MU also highlighted that between 38% and 50% of its members did not qualify for Government help in the initial phases of the pandemic and that even those who did receive money through the SEISS or furlough schemes, will be relying on steady levels of income during the busiest period of the year.

Although the Government is not formally cancelling events, it is appearing to advise people not to attend them, which is harming audience confidence at live music performances.

How Is the Latest Surge of Covid-19 Cases Affecting Your Work?

Help us make the best case possible to the Government by taking part in our quick survey.

Take the 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

Brighton pier at sunrise.

Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025

The MU will once again be present at The Great Escape Festival, supporting members and engaging with key industry topics between Wednesday 14 and Friday 16 May in Brighton.

Published: 08 May 2025

Read more about Meet the MU at The Great Escape Festival 2025
Exterior long shot of Caird Hall, Dundee., where Congress takes place.

MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025

Last week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) with MU Delegates Ronnie MacNiven, Ben Lunn and Calum Baird, who discussed the value of music education, fair work for musicians, the need for stability of the arts, and more. All of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 06 May 2025

Read more about MU Represents Scottish Musicians at STUC Congress 2025