skip to main content

Due to the ongoing global Microsoft outage, we are currently unable to send or receive emails. If your enquiry is urgent, please call us Contact

MU Responds to Death of Two Former Members of BBC Symphony Orchestra

The MU has released a response to reports on the death of two former members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra.

Published: 30 July 2021 | 6:47 PM
Black and white photograph of two drum sticks resting on a drum, with a music manuscript open in the background.
We are liaising with the BBC to ensure the utmost health and safety of their current orchestra members. Photo credit: Shutterstock

It was recently reported in the press that two former members of the BBC Symphony Orchestra died from mesothelioma (asbestos-related cancer) after working at the BBC’s Maida Vale Studios.

The MU is saddened by their passing and we send best wishes to their families. We are liaising with the BBC to ensure the utmost health and safety of their current orchestra members.

BBC Workplace have, for many years, engaged a specialist team to help them manage asbestos in accordance with all regulations and statutory requirements.

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

The UK flag waving in the wind next to the European Union flag, outside the Houses of Parliament.

Culture Industry Leaders Urge Andy Burnham and EU Leaders to Use Key Summit to Break Deadlock Over Touring UK and Europe

More than 300 music, live performance and cultural organisations across the UK and EU have written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham and EU leaders calling on them to use a key summit to break the deadlock over touring the UK and European Union.

Published: 13 November 2026

Read more about Culture Industry Leaders Urge Andy Burnham and EU Leaders to Use Key Summit to Break Deadlock Over Touring UK and Europe
Large, glass curved exterior of the BBC building HQ. its logo is on the front in white.

Email Your MP: Back Workers, Back the BBC!

The BBC is the single biggest employer and engager of MU members in the UK. Invite your MP to our drop-in event in Parliament to learn more and show their support for the BBC's music future!

Published: 11 November 2026

Read more about Email Your MP: Back Workers, Back the BBC!
Musician playing acoustic guitar, facing the setting sun and a crowd, performing at a festival. Flags and fairy lights are out of focus in the background.

UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT) has announced the 49 artists receiving support in its latest funding round, following the expansion of the scheme to help more UK artists navigate the ongoing cost-of-touring crisis.

Published: 06 November 2026

Read more about UK Artist Touring Fund Announces Second Phase Artists