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

Portrait of Chris Walker holding a clarinet.

Tribute to Chris Walker

Chris Walker was an accomplished clarinettist with a lifelong love of music. A much-respected member of the MU's East and South East England Regional Committee, he had been a member of the Union for almost 48 years. This tribute has been provided by his wife, Janet.

Published: 16 July 2026

Read more about Tribute to Chris Walker
Closeup of a hand playing guitar. In the background are students sitting in a circle and holding guitars.

MU Welcomes New Music Plan from Government

The Government has announced an additional £15 million for its Music Growth Package, taking total investment to £45 million over three years. The MU welcomes the funding while calling for progress on EU touring, music streaming and protections for creators from AI.

Published: 14 July 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes New Music Plan from Government
Silhouetted crowd at an outdoor gig at night, the stage is lit with blue light and confetti falls.

Music Tourism Hit Record £11.2bn in 2025 Says UK Music

A record 24.7 million music tourists attended UK concerts and festivals in 2025, spending £11.2 billion and supporting 74,000 jobs, according to new figures from UK Music. However despite the record year, challenges remain for grassroots music and touring.

Published: 13 July 2026

Read more about Music Tourism Hit Record £11.2bn in 2025 Says UK Music