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

Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
Out of focus interior of a venue, lights over an empty stage set for a panel, in front of a crowd.

The MU at Resonate Music Conference Glasgow

Returning on 13 November, the MU will host a panel discussion on the state of fair work in the creative industries, as well as one-to-one advice sessions for members attending.

Published: 04 November 2025

Read more about The MU at Resonate Music Conference Glasgow
Panel at this year's Classically Black event.

Celebrating Five Years of Black Lives in Music

This Black History Month we’re shining a spotlight on our partners, Black Lives in Music (BLiM), as they celebrate five years of championing equity and representation in the music industry.

Published: 29 October 2025

Read more about Celebrating Five Years of Black Lives in Music