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

View from behind a person on stage against smoke and lighting, their arms are raised as they explain something, holding a pen and paper.

MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre

The MU is pleased to launch two practical guides for Musical Directors (MDs) and Assistant Musical Directors (AMDs) working in theatre, covering key responsibilities, standard terms and conditions, and practical advice.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about MU Launches New Guidance for MDs and AMDs in Theatre
Two parents holding their new born baby at home.

Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales

Parents & Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) is hosting two in-person roundtables in Wales this May and June, inviting freelancers and organisations to share their experiences of balancing touring with caring responsibilities and help develop practical solutions for a more inclusive sector.

Published: 10 April 2026

Read more about Share Your Experience: PiPA Invites Parents and Carers to Touring Roundtables in Wales
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)