skip to main content

Performance in Parliament Square to Highlight Needs of Freelance Musicians

On Tuesday 6 October, at 12:00 pm, 400 freelance professional musicians will be performing a short extract from Holst’s “Mars,” in Parliament Square – shining a light on the need for targeted support for freelance musicians.

Published: 05 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Panoramic photograph of Parliament Square as the sun sets.
We strongly urge the Government to recognise the unique situation that our members are in, and to provide sector specific financial support for musicians. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Conducted by renowned director David Hill in Parliament Square, the freelance musicians will perform a short section of “Mars,” from Holst’s “The Planets,” before standing in silence for two minutes. The 20% of the piece that they will perform represents the maximum 20% support that freelancers can receive from the Government through the newest version of the SEISS grant.

The event will be Covid-19 safe and adhere strictly to social distancing regulations.

Our General Secretary, Horace Trubridge, commented:

“We appreciate all the Government has done to support our members through the furlough and self-employment income support schemes so far, but they must not abandon musicians now…We strongly urge the Government to recognise the unique situation that our members are in, and to provide sector specific financial support for musicians.”

We will be reporting on the event as it happens via our Twitter channel. Later the same day, Horace will be speaking to the Lords Economic Affairs Committee, which you can watch live on Parliament TV online from 4:00 pm.

Take action now

Join our urgent call to the Government to do more, in order to safeguard the future of the UK’s music culture and industry – ask your MP to make your voice heard in Parliament.

You can use our template letter if you’re not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too – personal stories make all the difference.

Write to your MP now.

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

Continue reading

Cardboard box with mics in and around to capture organic sound for the shoe box scene.

Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film

Musician Janie Price aka Bird has just released her first short film soundtrack ‘Wider Than The Sky’, she’s also been a member of the MU for 24 years. In this guest blog, she shares her journey and advice for other members intrigued by the world of score design and DIY projects.

Published: 15 July 2024

Read more about Wider Than The Sky: Janie Price on First Time Scriptwriting and Composing for Short Film
Black and white image of Gil sat at a piano in his younger years.

Tribute to Gil Martin

Gilbert Alexander Martin was a successful and highly accomplished pianist, as well as a lifelong member and supporter of the Musician's Union. He passed away on 29 May 2024. This tribute has been provided by Gil’s daughters, Gillian and Susan.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gil Martin
Sir Kier Starmer Labour leader giving his first speech after winning the general election and becoming prime minister on 5 July.

MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs

Having been so heavily involved in forming Labour policy and the manifesto, we look forward to working with the new Government to implement meaningful change for the country and for musicians.

Published: 11 July 2024

Read more about MU Welcomes New Labour Government and Meets New MPs