skip to main content

PiPA Launch Survey on Work-Life Balance For Those Working in the Arts

The Balancing Act Survey is aimed at all workers in music, opera, dance and theatre. It is open to all genders, parents and carers, as well as those who do not currently have caring responsibilities.

Published: 14 July 2023 | 1:00 PM
Three rocks balanced on top of each other on the beach, concept of balance and harmony.
Help PiPA advocate for better work-life balance for all. Image credit: Shutterstock.

PiPA (Parents and Carers in Performing Arts) are conducting research in collaboration with Birbeck University of London. They are interested in hearing from all workers in music, opera, dance and theatre, and both those with caring responsibilities and those currently without.

The industry has changed beyond recognition since PiPA’s previous Balancing Act survey in 2018, through Covid and the cost-of-living crisis. Regardless of whether people have caring responsibilities or not, life can’t be an afterthought and the data from this survey will help PiPA talk to government, employers, industry bodies and advocate for better resources and work-life balance for all.

Take the survey.

About the survey

PiPA will ask a list of questions about you and your work, such as where and how you typically work or perform, who supports you and how you feel about your work; the survey takes about 15 minutes to complete. The survey will analyse broad data trends, so your individual data will not be identifiable from any analysis.

The data will be presented at a PiPA conference, summarised in a practitioner report and also provide the basis for an academic publication so that they can help put focus on the concerns and needs of those working in the arts.

Find out more and complete the survey.

Get advice and support on mental health and physical wellbeing

Discover a wealth of advice and resources to help musicians to look after their mental health and physical wellbeing.

MU member services

Explore wellbeing for musicians

Get advice and support on mental health and physical wellbeing

Continue reading

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
A woman sat in a park closing her eyes and gently stretching her neck to the side.

Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter

Originally posted on her blog, professional classical musician and Feldenkrais teacher Emma Alter discusses how our neck and spine work together. The rest of this year’s Feldenkrais sessions will follow the theme of ‘Freeing Your Neck’, and are free for MU members.

Published: 18 November 2025

Read more about Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter
Percussion instruments in an orchestra.

Orchestra Accessibility Study Seeking Participants

Take part in a study by the University of Glasgow on the physical demands of playing in a professional orchestra, and how support can be improved for both disabled and non-disabled musicians.

Published: 13 November 2025

Read more about Orchestra Accessibility Study Seeking Participants