skip to main content

Pop-Up Orchestra Draws Attention to Campaign for Free Music Tuition in Scottish Schools

The campaign for free music tuition in Scottish state schools continues to gain momentum, as campaigners stage a pop-up orchestra in Glasgow’s George Square.

Published: 13 June 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

The campaign for free music tuition in Scottish state schools continues to gain momentum, as campaigners stage a pop-up orchestra in Glasgow’s George Square.

Professional musicians and students gathered to perform a specially arranged funeral march, to highlight the ongoing battle to stop councils cutting or charging for tuition.

The pop-up drew attention from the press and media, and campaigners hope it will encourage more people to support their petition calling on the Scottish Government for action.

So far the petition has attracted over 6,500 signatures, and will hopefully gather more before the deadline on 19 June.

Sign and share the petition online.

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

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
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry