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: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photo credit: Shutterstock

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

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)
Diljeet, sat on stage with the panellists, speaking into a microphone.

Challenging Stereotypes in the Music Industry: MU Panel at Launchpad 2026

At the 2026 Launchpad Conference in Leeds, the MU’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Dr Diljeet Bhachu, led a candid panel with Northern artists exploring identity, representation and the experiences of Global Majority and marginalised musicians in the UK music industry.

Published: 08 April 2026

Read more about Challenging Stereotypes in the Music Industry: MU Panel at Launchpad 2026