skip to main content

MU Signs Up to Keychange Initiative and Pledges to Work Towards Fifty-fifty Gender Representation

PRS Foundation’s Keychange initiative has now opened up to organisations within the music industry, having previously focused on music festivals and major events.

Published: 05 February 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Musicians playing in a home studio setting. Photo credit: Shutterstock
The MU is among the 250 organisations that have pledged towards gender equality

The MU is among the 250 organisations that have signed up to Keychange, and will now be working towards an equal gender balance on all MU Committees and events.

MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl reaffirmed the MU's support for the initiative, stating:

"All areas of the music industry need to work together to achieve gender equality and the MU is fully committed to our goal of achieving 50/50 gender balance on our committees and at our events.

"Keychange is a fantastic initiative that helps us reassess our current practices and see where we could do better. The MU are very proud supporters.”

This news follows Keychange announcing their 74 new participants for their year-long development program. Industry and export experts have selected these 74 artists and music industry professionals from 12 different countries.

The scheme will help these 74 women and gender minority participants gain the skills and opportunities they need to get to the next stage of their career. They are the first of three cohorts that will take part in the ambitious and future-facing four year programme that was announced in Summer 2019.

Join an MU Equalities Network

Members' opinions on equality and diversity issues are vital to the way the MU shapes its services, policies and campaigns. Our equality networks are an important part of this process.

Make sure your voice is heard, join an MU Equalities network.

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

Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician