We’ve launched an online auction of items donated from across the creative industries to raise money for our MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. 

"> We’ve launched an online auction of items donated from across the creative industries to raise money for our MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. 

"> We’ve launched an online auction of items donated from across the creative industries to raise money for our MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. 

">
skip to main content

MU Fundraising Auction Launched with Items Including Handmade Box from Author Philip Pullman

We’ve launched an online auction of items donated from across the creative industries to raise money for our MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. 

Published: 16 April 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
A woman and a man excited and happy holding a phone
Helping provide immediate support for musicians in real financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus crisis. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Philip Pullman, a staunch defender and keen supporter of the arts, has donated a wooden box that he has crafted from cherry, poplar and five thousand-year-old bog wood, and which he describes as being one of the best boxes he’s ever made.   

Other items include career-spanning merchandise from Garbage, music prints, and a bundle of books to be signed personally to the winning bidder by writer, broadcaster and jazz pianist, Jay Rayner.   

Astounding generosity from artists and fans

“The generosity of artists and fans since the lockdown started has been astounding, and we know that everyone is keen to find a way of helping those in need” said MU Live and Music Writers Official, Kelly Wood.  

“Our members, friends and supporters have donated some really special items which we hope will encourage fans to get involved, in the knowledge that each and every bid will provide additional support for musicians in financial hardship” 

The MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund was launched at the start of the lockdown in order to provide urgent relief in the form of grants of £200 to MU members whose work has been impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak. 

Bid, donate, take part

The auction will run for a month, and additional items will be added during that time. 

You can view and take part in the auction on the eBids page now.

If you would like to donate an item, please contact kelly.wood@theMU.org  

Where to go for financial support

If you’re in need of immediate financial relief, would like some sources for financial advice, or want to know more about the Government’s financial assistance schemes, see our Financial Support page.

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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action