skip to main content

MU Fights for English National Opera's Future

We are continuing to make the case for the English National Opera (ENO), writing to key stakeholders and emphasising the impact that hastily made plans and underfunding will have on the wider classical music industry.

Published: 10 July 2023 | 2:41 PM Updated: 12 July 2023 | 4:39 PM

The MU have been in continued talks following the funding cuts to the English National Opera (ENO) which were announced by Arts Council England (ACE) in November of last year.

Since the cuts were announced, and following months of difficult conversations, we have seen a motion passed at the London Assembly to save the ENO from a full relocation – but the timescale and funding remain a major point of concern for the MU, Equity, Bectu and the wider arts community. We are continuing to press this issue as an urgent matter.

A diminution in pay and terms across many orchestras does not paint a bright future

In a recent letter to Darren Henley (Chief Executive of ACE), MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl said:

“What are young musicians in the colleges and conservatories to aspire to now? With threats at the BBC and a diminution in pay and terms across many orchestras, we are far from painting a vision of a bright future for our young musician community.”

MU London Regional Organiser Jamie Pullman added, "We are very worried about the future of classical music, and opera particularly. With 12 Culture Secretaries in 13 years, it's clear that this government doesn't take the sector seriously no matter how many times the benefits it brings are made clear.”

We’ve sent a letter along similar lines to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer, urging her to consider the effect of the cuts not just on the ENO but on the classical music industry as a whole.

Highlights from the campaign to save the ENO and protect arts funding

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

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

Cardboard box with mics in and around to capture organic sound for the shoe box scene.

Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film

Musician Janie Price aka Bird has just released her first short film soundtrack ‘Wider Than The Sky’, she’s also been a member of the MU for 24 years. In this guest blog, she shares her journey and advice for other members intrigued by the world of score design and DIY projects.

Published: 15 July 2024

Read more about Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film
Black and white image of Gil sat at a piano in his younger years.

Tribute to Gil Martin

Gilbert Alexander Martin was a successful and highly accomplished pianist, as well as a lifelong member and supporter of the Musician's Union. He passed away on 29 May 2024. This tribute has been provided by Gil’s daughters, Gillian and Susan.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gil Martin
Sir Kier Starmer Labour leader giving his first speech after winning the general election and becoming prime minister on 5 July.

MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs

Having been so heavily involved in forming Labour policy and the manifesto, we look forward to working with the new Government to implement meaningful change for the country and for musicians.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs