skip to main content
Search

MU/UK Theatre Rate increases from 1 April 2019

The following rate increases will apply from 1 April 2019 for musicians working under the Musicians’ Union’s (MU) agreement with UK Theatre.

Published: 29 March 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

Commercial 8 show week

Basic: £616.69

Sunday working: £57.30

Pension Contribution increases to 3% (formerly 2.5%) for both Manager and Musician Up to 2 instruments: £18.50; 3 Instruments: £20.35; 4 Instruments: £23.40.

More details on Commercial 8 show rates 

Subsidised 8 show week

Basic: £556.23

Sunday Working: £ 57.30

Pension Contribution increases to 3% (formerly 2.5%) for both Manager and Musician Up to 2 instruments: £16.69; 3 Instruments: £18.36; 4 Instruments: £21.11.

More details on Subsidised 8 show rates

Other

Touring Allowance and Subsistence increase in line with Equity agreement and will be confirmed pending their negotiations which take place in March 2019.

Current rates are Subsistence £167.00 Touring Allowance £250.00.

Details on increases for commercial 12 show rates

Details on increases for subsidised 12 show rates

See all news

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

John Shortell wearing a Musicians' Union t-shirt with rainbow logo, holding a flag, during a Pride march in 2023. He is joined by colleagues and other members who are performing as they walk.

MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List

The MU congratulates John Shortell, Head of ED&I, on being named one of IQ Magazine’s outstanding queer professionals in the international live music business. John is a driving force for change, and the Union is exceptionally proud to have him working on behalf of musicians.

Published: 03 July 2025

Read more about MU Head of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Named in IQ Magazine’s 2025 Queer Pioneers List
Wooden blocks with speech bubble graphics on them against a blue background, a single block with a red stop sign is in front of them, blocking the line, representing free speech restrictions.

MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance

The MU reiterates its anti-censorship position and support for the organisation ‘Freemuse’, following the issues around the broadcasting of Glastonbury sets this weekend.

Published: 01 July 2025

Read more about MU Reiterates Anti-Censorship Stance
All news and features