skip to main content

MU welcomes NUT/ATL merger

The Musicians' Union (MU) looks forward to working with the new National Education Union (NEU) - the union formed by the NUT and ATL.

Published: 22 March 2017 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM

The Musicians' Union (MU) looks forward to working with the new National Education Union (NEU) - the union formed by the NUT and ATL.

The MU has today welcomed the formation of the National Education Union (NEU).

Members of the NUT and ATL voted overwhelmingly to form the new 'super-union', which will have around 450,000-members. The results show 97.2% of NUT members and 72.8% of ATL members voted for the merger with the main aim for them to become a powerful voice for the whole education profession.

The MU currently has a joint membership agreement with the NUT, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the new union.

Diane Widdison, National Organiser for Education and Training at the MU, said: “Our unity in working closely with the NUT has been very important to us as we continue to campaign and champion the work of teachers across a whole range of educational settings. Working with the new amalgamated Union, the NEU, will gives us the opportunity to be part of their lobbying to Government on the important issues facing those currently working in education.”

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

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