skip to main content

Nevis Ensemble Cease Trading Due to Severe Funding Challenges

Members engaged with the Nevis Ensemble either as freelancers or ‘Fellows’ are encouraged to contact the MU’s Orchestras Department for advice and support.

Published: 24 January 2023 | 10:45 AM
A flute left lying flat across a piece of blurred out sheet music.
“This news comes as yet another blow for the music sector in Scotland and in particular young and freelance working musicians.” Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU are deeply concerned at the news that in the face of severe funding challenges, Nevis Ensemble have now ceased trading and all Nevis Ensemble activity has been halted with immediate effect.

This is of grave concern to our members who are engaged by the organisation as ‘Fellows’ and to those who are engaged on a freelance basis – both of whom have had their work with the organisation cancelled.

MU Regional Organiser for Scotland & Northern Ireland Caroline Sewell commented on this heavy news for the music sector in Scotland:

“This news comes as yet another blow for the music sector in Scotland and in particular young and freelance working musicians – not to mention audiences across Scotland across Scotland and beyond.”

MU members who are affected are encouraged to contact us by emailing orchestral@TheMU.org so that we can offer appropriate advice and support.

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

Young Black male musician, singing into a microphone against a bright studio light.

MU Sponsors Black Welsh Music Awards 2025

The MU is proud to sponsor the 2025 Black Welsh Music Awards (BWMA), which will take place on Saturday 4 October at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama (RWCMD) in Cardiff.

Published: 03 September 2025

Read more about MU Sponsors Black Welsh Music Awards 2025
Exterior of the venue - a white tiled building with writing on the windows and an orange neon sign saying Belgrave Music Hall.

MU Member Discount for New FFWDxLEEDS Conference

On 9 September the North of England team will be attending FFWDxLEEDS—a new conference aimed at bridging the gap between local artists and the wider music industry. MU Members can also access a 10% discount on tickets with our exclusive code.

Published: 03 September 2025

Read more about MU Member Discount for New FFWDxLEEDS Conference

Festival Diaries: Creative Ways to Approach Sustainability

As the climate crisis intensifies, Aayushi Jain explores the balance between affordability and sustainability on the festival circuit. Drawing on her summer tour last year as an independent artist, she shares practical and creative ways to reduce the environmental impact of touring.

Published: 29 August 2025

Read more about Festival Diaries: Creative Ways to Approach Sustainability