skip to main content

Over 100 Letters Urge ENO Management to Save ENO as a Full-Time Company with a Full-Time Orchestra

Add your voice to the call, by writing to English National Opera’s management urging them to reconsider proposals to axe 19 jobs and go part-time.

Published: 16 November 2023 | 12:21 PM Updated: 15 December 2023 | 4:34 PM
A crowd march with union banners, including placards that read
Following a campaign by ENO and the trade unions the MU, Equity and BECTU – ENO reached a new funding settlement with Arts Council England. Photo credit: Musicians’ Union


English National Opera (ENO) is planning to axe 19 posts in the orchestra and employ the remaining musicians on part-time contracts. Some musicians will lose 70% of their work.

The MU has received over 100 letters from musicians and audiences urging ENO to reconsider these proposals.

Please write to the ENO’s management urging them to reconsider their proposals using our template letter.

What is happening at ENO?

Last November, Arts Council England (ACE) announced that it would cut all of English National Opera's National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) funding and said to move outside of London.

Following a campaign by ENO and the trade unions the MU, Equity and BECTU – ENO reached a new funding settlement with Arts Council England.

However, management now wants to axe 19 posts in the orchestra and make the company part-time in new proposals that have been discussed with ACE.

The MU rejects these ENO’s proposals and is fighting to keep members at ENO in full-time jobs on full time pay.

Save jobs at ENO, take action now!

Write to English National Opera’s management urging them to reconsider proposals to axe 19 jobs and go part-time.

Use our template letter, and remember to add your experiences as a musician, audience member or donor.

Send your letter to london@theMU.org with ‘FAO ENO Management’ in the subject line, and the union will organise a mass delivery.

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

Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
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