skip to main content

Q&A From #AskTheMU Streaming Special Now Available to Read Online

We hosted a special Q&A with MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl and Ivors Academy CEO Graham Davies on Wednesday 16 September, and it’s now available to read online.

Published: 17 September 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Banner reading
We need to ensure income streams to creators and performers are strengthened. Royalties sustain careers. Photo credit: Shutterstock

You can read the full thread of questions and answers on unroll now.

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl commented on the importance of the conversation, and how concerned members could act next:

“At times like these, we need to ensure income streams to creators and performers are strengthened. Royalties sustain careers. To support us, sign the #FixStreaming petition and get involved with the #BrokenRecord campaign.”

Campaigning to fix streaming

The MU and Ivors Academy are working together to fix streaming and keep music alive.

Over 16,000 people have signed the petition calling for an urgent Government review, and decision makers are taking notice.

MPs on Parliament’s Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee are backing our call, and the press is listening too. Pitchfork, Wired and more have looked at the #FixStreaming campaign, grassroots #BrokenRecord movement, and our collective push for real and meaningful change.

Add your voice to the call – sign the Fix Streaming petition 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 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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action
Close up of person holding a pen and paper over a keyboard.

Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters

If you have attended a songwriting session for a major label since September 2025, the DCMS wants to hear from you. Your feedback will help evaluate measures introduced following the UK streaming inquiry and strengthen the case for fair pay for music creators.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about Have Your Say on Streaming: DCMS Launches Survey for Songwriters