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 a range of Gibson guitars at a guitar exhibition.

MU Returns to Birmingham Guitar Show for 2025

The annual Guitar and Bass Show takes place in Solihull on 1 and 2 March. MU Officials will be present on both days of the event and members attending are invited to come along and meet the regional team.

Published: 22 January 2025

Read more about MU Returns to Birmingham Guitar Show for 2025
Close up, side view, of an old piano with ivory keys.

The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species

The Ivory Act 2018 has now been extended to cover the common hippopotamus, killer whale, narwhal and sperm whale. These Regulations, which come into force on 28 January, may impact those who intend to sell, purchase or hire musical instruments containing ivory.

Published: 21 January 2025

Read more about The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species
Steve playing fiddle live in front of a microphone on a stand.

Tribute to Steve Simpson

Steve Simpson was a successful and talented musician who played guitar, mandolin, fiddle and performed vocals across the UK and internationally. He originally joined the MU in 1974. This tribute has been provided by his partner, Caroline Morgan.

Published: 21 January 2025

Read more about Tribute to Steve Simpson