skip to main content

MU Joins the European Folk Network

The MU has joined the pan-Europe organisation supporting folk and traditional music and culture across Europe.

Published: 21 April 2023 | 1:03 PM Updated: 03 May 2023 | 11:49 AM
Violin, acoustic guitar and percussion instruments on tiled carpet representing European folk style.
This is a great opportunity to stay connected with folk organisations across Europe. Image credit: Shutterstock.

The European Folk Network (EFN) was formed in January 2019 and brings together folk organisations from across Europe to support the sector.

Thanks to a meeting with EFN Administrator Nod Knowles and MU Head of International Dave Webster at WOMEX in October 2022, the union’s Executive Committee has agreed that the MU should join the network.

A great opportunity

Dave Webster says: "This is a great opportunity to stay connected with folk organisations across Europe and a useful resource for the MU as UK musicians navigate the more difficult process of working in Europe, as well as a source of information and research”.

Dave will be attending the EFN Conference in Manchester later this year as part of English Folk Expo.

Nod Knowles, EFN administrator says:

“We are delighted that the MU has joined the European Folk Network. We are the only pan-European membership organisation for folk and traditional music, dance and storytelling and our members range from national organisations to individual artists across 30 European nations.

“We hope that MU members may also join EFN and contribute to our mission of connecting people across the sector and raising the profile of our diverse folk traditions throughout Europe.”

Learn more about EFN membership.

Continue reading

13 members of the Board gathered in front of some stairs.

MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board

The MU has joined the new Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board alongside artists, venues, labels, media professionals, academics and industry experts. The Board will help shape the future of the region’s music sector and support long-term growth across the local music ecosystem.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board
Hands holding a pink sign with a megaphone illustration, the text says

The Arts and Minds Campaign: One Year On

One year after its launch, our Arts and Minds Campaign has helped put arts education back on the Government’s agenda. The next challenge is ensuring those commitments deliver meaningful change for teachers and pupils.

Published: 01 May 2026

Read more about The Arts and Minds Campaign: One Year On
Close up of someone playing guitar, their hands both on the fretboard.

Stroke and Musicians: When Precision Matters

In this guest blog to mark Stroke Awareness Month, Dr Finola Ryan, Consultant Occupational Physician and BAPAM Medical Director, explores how strokes can uniquely affect musicians and what support is available to help them return to performing.

Published: 01 May 2026

Read more about Stroke and Musicians: When Precision Matters
Close up of someone playing guitar, their hands both on the fretboard.

Stroke and Musicians: When Precision Matters

In this guest blog to mark Stroke Awareness Month, Dr Finola Ryan, Consultant Occupational Physician and BAPAM Medical Director, explores how strokes can uniquely affect musicians and what support is available to help them return to performing.

Published: 01 May 2026

Read more about Stroke and Musicians: When Precision Matters