skip to main content

Music Lecturer to Hold Day of Lectures in Fundraising Drive for our Hardship Fund

The Verdun Allen Music Foundation will be fundraising for our Covid-19 Hardship Fund with a special day of lectures on Saturday 27 February.

Published: 17 February 2021 | 11:56 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:32 PM
Photograph of a string quartet, we can't see the musicians except for the arms holding the instruments. There is a violin in close view, behind is a blurred viola and cello.
All proceeds will go to the Musicians Union COVID 19 Hardship Fund, and donations so far have already exceeded the fundraising drive’s initial target of £1000. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The Verdun Allen Music Foundation was established in February 2016 to provide much needed adult education in Manchester. During the pandemic, the organisation has offered a number of online courses via zoom and now welcomes people throughout the UK.

A special series of lectures on Saturday 27th February will mark the organisation's 5th anniversary. All proceeds will go to the Musicians Union COVID 19 Hardship Fund, and donations so far have already exceeded the fundraising drive’s initial target of £1000.

Each session will include short recitals and opportunities for discussion. The lectures planned are:

  • 10:00 am - 12:00 pm: A Sermon in Music: Bach's Cantata BWV 140 'Wachet auf'
  • 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Exotic sounds in Debussy's String Quartet
  • 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: A National Monument: Elgar's Cello Concerto

To access one or more of the zoom lectures, email stevenrobinson1970@msn.com

Classes are free, but with a suggested donation to the MU of £10 per session.

You can find out more about Steven Robinson and the Verdun Allen Music Foundation on their website.

#KeepMusicLive

Can a UBI keep music live?

The idea of a universal basic income has been around for centuries. Now, the MU and many others believe its time has come.

Can a UBI keep music live?

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)