skip to main content

Parents Support Free Movement for Musicians

It's not just musicians who have been signing the MU petition calling on Government and Parliament to support free movement for musicians post-Brexit. Those around them are making themselves heard too.

Published: 12 April 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

Almost 25,000 people have signed the Musicians’ Union petition calling on Government and Parliament to support free movement for musicians post-Brexit.

It’s not just musicians themselves signing – those around them are making themselves heard. Parents and grandparents are telling us that they are worried about their children’s future and the impact of Brexit on their careers in music.

Starting out

“My son hopes to be a professional musician one day. Through his involvement in music, I have come to know many other young musicians whose ambition is to forge a career in music – and not just classical."

"Not being able to travel freely in the EU would make it so much more difficult for these hardworking, dedicated and talented young people to be able to forge a successful career,” says Sian from Llanllechid.

“My daughter is an up and coming musician who needs to be able to travel freely to sing and play in Europe,” writes Jane from Waterlooville.

Working together

Elaine from Aberdeen’s son and his friends are already gigging. She says,“My son has been brought up as a European, he plays in a successful band. Members of the band are from all over Europe. ”

Elaine adds, “Many of his friends are musicians touring all over Europe and the world. It is essential for Government and Parliament to Support Free Movement for Musicians Post Brexit.”

Making a living

Jean from Stourport-on-Severn says, “having a son who is a musician I fully understand the importance of this petition. Our musicians need to travel the world to showcase British talent, and closed borders would have a huge impact on their ability to travel for work."

"It's bad enough that we are leaving Europe. Please don't make life even more difficult for musicians and performers to make a living and showcase our country's talent.”

“My son is a musician travelling to many countries in Europe for gigs and shows. Life is difficult enough for young musicians trying to make a living these days without added travel barriers,” comments Judith from Bristol.

“Five of my daughters and two grandchildren are musicians,” says Tony from Smethwick.

Sian, Jane, Elaine, Jean, Judith and Tony are not alone

Over a thousand people have told us why they care about free movement for musicians post-Brexit. Do you? Take action now! Sign the petition via Change.org.

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

MU members and staff standing in front of the Union's bright yellow marching banner which reads

MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds

MU members and staff took part in the TUC May Day event in Leeds on 2 May, joining trade union colleagues from across the movement in a show of solidarity and collective action.

Published: 15 May 2026

Read more about MU Members Join TUC May Day March in Leeds
Jenny is wearing a rainbow hat and two MU members are wearing Union branded t-shirts, carrying flags and a keyboard.

‘At the Heart of Democracy’: MU Marks IDAHOBIT 2026

Ahead of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT) on May 17, the MU reflects on a year of member stories, activism and solidarity across the music industry, highlighting the importance of LGBTQ+ voices within the Union and beyond.

Published: 14 May 2026

Read more about ‘At the Heart of Democracy’: MU Marks IDAHOBIT 2026
Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool at sunset.

Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount

Outer Waves Festival, the North West's newest celebration of underground arts returns to Liverpool 23-24 May 2026. MU North of England Regional Officer Philip Morris will join a panel on gentrification, and MU members can access discounted weekend tickets.

Published: 13 May 2026

Member only Read more about Outer Waves Festival Returns to Liverpool with MU Member Discount