skip to main content

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.

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

Blue digital sound waves over a black background.

Beyond Copyright: Do Musicians Need Personality Rights in the UK?

AI-generated voices, deepfakes and digital replicas are creating new challenges for musicians. Dr Hayleigh Bosher examines why existing UK copyright law may not be enough, and how personality rights could give creators greater control over their image and voice.

Published: 20 July 2026

Read more about Beyond Copyright: Do Musicians Need Personality Rights in the UK?
The white M U x LMHR t-shirt on a hanger.

MU and Love Music Hate Racism Launch Limited-Edition T-Shirt

The MU and Love Music Hate Racism (LMHR) have launched a special collaboration at this year's Tolpuddle Festival, celebrating music, solidarity and the fight against racism, with profits supporting anti-racist campaigning and the MU Benevolent Fund.

Published: 17 July 2026

Read more about MU and Love Music Hate Racism Launch Limited-Edition T-Shirt
Portrait of Chris Walker holding a clarinet.

Tribute to Chris Walker

Chris Walker was an accomplished clarinettist with a lifelong love of music. A much-respected member of the MU's East and South East England Regional Committee, he had been a member of the Union for almost 48 years. This tribute has been provided by his wife, Janet.

Published: 16 July 2026

Read more about Tribute to Chris Walker