skip to main content

MU Statement on Musicians Wishing to Boycott The Great Escape Festival 2024

The MU stands in solidarity with members and non-members who are boycotting this year’s Great Escape Festival due to sponsorship concerns, and reiterate the importance of getting in touch with your regional office should you need support and/or advice.

Published: 03 May 2024 | 1:29 PM
View of the Victorian Brighton Pier and the Brighton wheel at sunset.
The MU is here to offer guidance to any member wishing to boycott this, or any other event. Image credit: Shutterstock.

We will always support our members who choose to withhold their labour, whether that be to fight for better pay, better working conditions or in this case, a better world.

The boycott is an act of solidarity with the people of Palestine, and one of the few instruments that freelance musicians have to call attention to practices that they disagree with.

At the request of our members, the MU have been in touch with The Great Escape and Live Nation to discuss their relationship with Barclays Bank, and whether their sponsorship is being reviewed because of artists’ concerns.

The Council of Music Makers (CMM) - the umbrella organisation representing the Ivors Academy, FAC, MMF, MPG and the MU - will present a full day of talks, discussions, case studies and insights as part of the Great Escape industry conference. We plan to discuss the boycott as part of these discussions.

Any members who have boycotted The Great Escape and need advice on their rights should contact their regional office for support.

The MU is here to offer guidance to any member wishing to boycott this, or any other event. We will also provide support to musicians who have been targeted due to their political activism.

View our advice and full statement

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

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre
Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales
Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers
Tom standing in front of the door to Lio London cabaret (formerly the Café de Paris), in October, 2024.

Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)

Tom O’Connor, a talented drummer who performed in the West End, on multiple cruise ships and even at Queen Elizabeth’s garden party, passed away at the age of 89 in March 2026. He was a lifelong member of the Musicians’ Union for 68 years, having joined in 1958.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)