MU endorses Andy Burnham for Greater Manchester Metro Mayor.

The Musicians’ Union endorses Andy Burnham’s candidacy as Greater Manchester Metro Mayor.

Published: 07 July 2016 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

The Musicians’ Union (MU) endorses Andy Burnham’s candidacy as Greater Manchester Metro Mayor.

Andy’s work with the MU began when he was Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport in which post he proved to be sympathetic to the Union’s issues and proved to be a great advocate for British musicians, particularly in the campaign to have the copyright term extended from 50 years to 70 years.

The MU is convinced that Andy would be an effective, hardworking Mayor and we recommend that all MU members in Greater Manchester vote for Andy Burnham.

See all news

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

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

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

People walking on a busy street in Austin, Texas near the Austin Convention Center.

New Video Guidance on US Entry Requirements for SXSW 2026

A new video guide explains how international artists can enter the US for SXSW 2026 under ESTA, what documents to bring, and how to prepare for border checks.

Published: 06 March 2026

Ruth and Siân, standing in a bright indoor space holding a large poster of the front cover of the new Engaging Creative Freelancers Guide.

New Bilingual Guide Champions Fair Work for Creative Freelancers in Wales

CULT Cymru, in partnership with the Musicians’ Union, has published a bilingual best practice guide to support creative freelancers, venues and organisations in creating fairer, safer working environments across Wales’ creative sector.

Published: 04 March 2026

Inside of the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood, empty wooden seats sit in a half circle around the main speaking stage with screens.

Scottish Election 2026: Where Parties Stand on Musicians’ Priorities

At the recent Culture Counts election hustings, representatives from Scotland’s major parties addressed key issues facing musicians. Here’s how their positions align with the MU's priorities ahead of the 2026 Holyrood election.

Published: 03 March 2026

All news and features

Cookies on Musicians' Union

Use your voice

Popular searches