The Musicians’ Union (MU) has expressed its concerns about liquidation proceedings being commenced for 'Geronimo Festival UK Ltd’ which owes MU members several thousand pounds.
The MU is urging the directors of the limited company to open a constructive dialogue with the union and make arrangements to reimburse musicians for their performances at this year’s Geronimo Festivals at Arley Hall and Knebworth House. Especially as it appears that a new limited company has already been set up in preparation for next year’s festivals.
Stephen Brown, MU Midlands Regional Organiser, said:
"Across the UK, the MU is dealing with a number of members who have not been paid for their performances and who we will support to the best of our ability.
"In cases like these, a company or its directors will often set up again under a changed name and start booking musicians for future events. This leaves musicians who performed at previous events out of pocket with a very real risk that musicians booked for future events will find themselves in the same position.
"I would urge the organisers of the Geronimo Festival to engage with us to reach a satisfactory resolution. After all, reputation and confidence is everything in this business."
Dave Webster, National Organiser Live Performance, added:
"It's a great shame that the law is not more robust when it comes to companies going into liquidation owing money to then re-emerge and continue to do business. Many musicians live pay cheque to pay cheque and unpaid fees can mean they are unable to meet their rent or mortgage payments or feed their family."
Any MU members currently owed performance fees relating to 2018 Geronimo festivals at Arley Hall and/or Knebworth House should contact their MU Regional Office.