skip to main content

Provisional Timetable for Easing Lockdown in Scotland Announced

The announcement includes hopes for outdoor events and concerts from 24 August, and live music venues and theatres from 14 September.

Published: 30 July 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photo of musician singing into a microphone on the stage with bright white lights behind.
Nicola Sturgeon hopes that theatres and live music venues will be able to open from 14 September with physical distancing and enhanced hygiene. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Nicola Sturgeon has announced a provisional timetable for the further easing of lockdown and confirmed that Scotland will not be announcing a move from Phase three to Phase four of the lockdown restrictions yet.

Sturgeon announced that she hopes that from 24 August, outdoor events and concerts with physical distancing measures, enhanced safety and hygiene measures and restricted numbers will be permitted, emphasising that this information is indicative and will not be confirmed until nearer the time.

She also announced that she hopes that theatres and live music venues will be able to open from 14 September with physical distancing and enhanced hygiene. In order to facilitate this, the Venue Relief Fund has been increased from £10m to £12.5m.

Read the Scottish Government’s full route map for moving through and out of Phase Three on their website.

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

Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force