skip to main content

New series of ‘How to Release Your Music and Get Paid’ Workshops to be Held Across the North of England

PRS for Music and the MU are holding a series of events across the North of England entitled 'How To Release Your Music and Get Paid'.

Published: 24 September 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 14 April 2026 | 4:10 PM

Now more than ever before, musicians and artists are taking a DIY approach to creating, releasing and exploiting their music. Some are self-releasing now with hopes of securing a future record deal, but others see it as a long-term strategy for their careers.

Either way, if you are planning to release your own music then it’s vital you understand some fundamentals about the way the music industry works and how your music can generate revenue.

If the first half of the workshops, the MU will explain how record labels and music publishers make their money and how independent artists can do the same. In the second half, PRS for Music will take you through the practicalities of self service using the PRSfM website.

The workshops will start at 7:00 pm, and the evening will conclude with networking drinks, finishing at approximately 10:00 pm.

Admission to these events is free, but numbers are limited so it’s essential you book a space via the Eventbrite links below if you wish to attend.

If you have any questions or specific access requirements, please contact the North of England Regional Office on 0161 236 1764 or email manchester@theMU.org

The three upcoming workshop locations are:

Hull

Thursday 3 October
Bonus Arena, PDR Lounge, Myton Street, Hull HU1 2PS

Book your place

Sheffield

Monday 21 October
Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield S1 2BX

Book your place

Newcastle

Thursday 7 November
The Cluny, 36 Lime Street, Ouseburn, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ

Book your place

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

Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician
An empty conference table with chairs and microphones.

Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live

MU members can watch the FIM International Freelance Conference live online on 21-22 October 2026. Tune in to our livestream to hear international speakers discuss pay, rights, organising, discrimination, portfolio careers and the future of freelance work.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Watch FIM International Freelance Conference Live
A theatre pit at the front bottom of the stage, full of musicians lit by lamps, as the audience takes their seats before the performance.

Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre

Whether you're new to theatre or an experienced composer or sound designer, MU Music Writers' Advisory Board Chair Sarah Sayeed shares practical advice on contracts, fees, licensing and protecting the value of your work.

Published: 13 October 2026

Read more about Sarah Sayeed: Composing and Sound Design for Theatre