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

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl standing in front of Number 10 Downing Street, along with general secretaries from unions across the country.

MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister

The MU has welcomed the Government’s rethink on AI but has emphasised the importance of copyright reform to the Prime Minister. While the shift away from an opt-out system is positive, we continue to call for Government intervention to ensure musicians are fairly paid as AI licensing grows.

Published: 19 March 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Raises AI Concerns with Prime Minister
A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026

Read more about MU Statement on Conflict in Iran
A placard at a march against the far right.

Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right

Join us on Saturday 28 March for what’s expected to be the UK’s largest anti‑racist march. Find out how to join the MU delegation and explore our new Anti‑Far Right Hub to learn how far‑right movements operate and how to challenge them.

Published: 17 March 2026

Read more about Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right
Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force