skip to main content

Musicians' Union welcomes increase in music education funding

The MU welcomes the announcement of the extra funding commitment to music education in England and is pleased to see the Government recognising the importance of giving children the opportunity to learn instruments at school.

Published: 22 July 2014 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:28 PM
The MU welcomes the announcement of the extra funding commitment to music education in England and is pleased to see the Government recognising the importance of giving children the opportunity to learn instruments at school. Diane Widdison, MU National Organiser – Education & Training: ‘This is excellent news for music education and for hubs in particular, however we have seen hundreds of teachers lose their jobs in music services over the past three years and we still feel the aspirations of the National Music Plan can only be achieved if there is the workforce there to inspire the next generation of musicians. ‘This is one of the reasons we launched #SupportMyMusicTeacher - to raise awareness of the issues affecting music teachers everywhere, and celebrate the work of music teachers in creating the musicians and music lovers of the future.’   #SupportMyMusicTeacher Tell us why you support your music teacher – how your music teacher changed your life and helped you achieve your ambitions. Are you a music teacher? Share the issues affecting you, and ask your students to show their support. Tweet, post on Facebook and across social media using the hashtag #SupportMyMusicTeacher. Find out more about #SupportMyMusicTeacher and how to get involved  

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

Top view of an acoustic violin and pernambuco wood bow on a tabletop.

Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today

The MU is calling on members to take urgent action to protect the future of high-quality bow making and the musicians who rely on it, after a proposal to move pernambuco wood from Appendix II to Appendix I.

Published: 10 July 2025

Read more about Save Pernambuco Bows: Write to Your MP Today
MU Head of ED&I John Shortell, with Regional Officer Simeon Scheuber-Rush and MU delegates, on the main stage in front of a blue screen saying “TUC LGBT+ Workers’ Conference 2025

MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference

Last week, MU members represented the Union at TUC’s annual LGBT+ Workers' Conference, where a motion was passed unanimously on protecting LGBTQ+ rights globally, the value of ED&I work, and promoting greater awareness of intersectional, LGBTQ+ inclusive health and safety issues.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Champions Global LGBTQ+ Rights at TUC Conference
A panel event from last year in a tent. There are four people sat along a table in front of a crowd.

MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025

Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival takes place next weekend and we’re pleased to share more details about the MU’s presence at the event – including confirmed panel appearances, a workshop session, and the debut of our brand new union banner in Sunday’s iconic march.

Published: 08 July 2025

Read more about MU Panels and Workshop Confirmed for Tolpuddle Festival 2025