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Next Steps for Musicians Following the General Election

The Conservatives have won an overall majority in the general election. It’s now almost certain that we will get a Tory Brexit, which means musicians are likely to face new barriers to working in the EU post-Brexit.

Published: 13 December 2019 | 12:00 AM Updated: 12 July 2021 | 5:52 PM

Music is a low paid profession. Profit margins are small for all but the biggest acts. So anything that makes it harder or more expensive to work in the European Union will mean many British musicians not going there at all.

And with UK music venues closing at an alarming rate – the UK has lost a third of its venues in the last decade – European venues have become more important than ever to build a successful live career.

Take action now

Over 30,000 people have signed the petition for a Musicians’ Passport. 

Get involved with our campaign

Send the postcard

Are you an MU member? If so, you can find a postcard in the latest edition of The Musician magazine. Fill in your MP’s name at the top, sign the postcard with your name and full address, and put it in the post.

It’s especially important if your MP is new, as they are less likely to know that musicians working in the EU is an issue that they need to be aware of on behalf of their constituents. If you’re not sure who your new MP is, you can find out here.

Haven’t got a postcard? Write to your MP

Write to your MP at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. If you’re not sure who your new MP is, you can find out here.

Keep Musicians Working in the EU

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

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

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Exterior of Caird Hall in the city centre of Dundee, Scotland.

Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024

This week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress with MU Delegates Christine Cooper and Ben Lunn, who discussed the importance of music education, community arts in Scotland and establishing a Music Expo Office for the country. All three of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 18 April 2024

Read more about Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024
Two young female street musicians, one playing acoustic guitar and the other an accordian.

Deadline Approaching for Funding From Alan Surtees Trust 

The Alan Surtees Trust makes up to four awards of £2,000 annually to support performers aged 16 to 30 with projects rooted in, or influenced by, folk or traditional music of all cultures. The deadline for applications is April 30.

Published: 15 April 2024

Read more about Deadline Approaching for Funding From Alan Surtees Trust