skip to main content

Recording Sessions: A First Step Back on the Road to Recovery

Our Assistant General Secretary, Phil Kear, describes how the “Recording studios in England are on the threshold of welcoming back session musicians to fulfil a programme of recordings for film, TV, video games and commercial audio recordings.”

Published: 29 May 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photo of an empty recording studio
Our studio safety advice is aimed at guiding members back to what is likely to be a much-changed working environment. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU is delighted that members can once again begin to undertake their role in providing first class music for major productions.

Many of our recording session musician members have not been able to work for months, but a recent relaxation of lock-down conditions in England means those who cannot work from home are now encouraged to return to the workplace, provided an appropriate environment exists in which to do so.

Two major studios in London (Air Lyndhurst and Abbey Road) have recording sessions scheduled and have been working hard to establish safe environments, able to accommodate groups of musicians. MU officials have been working closely with the Union’s health and safety consultant in assisting contractors and studios with these efforts.

Safety adjustments for the current environment

The MU has also published studio safety advice which is aimed at guiding members back to what is likely to be a much-changed working environment.

For the time being studios will be limiting the number of players in the recording room, where studios have carefully, in conjunction with contractors, planned seating layouts to maximise spacing between players.

Adjustments have also been made to the lengths of sessions and breaks, restrictions to overtime, and standardising overdubbing at 100% in the short term, to facilitate adherence to the safety measures required.

The last few months have been an immensely difficult time for all our members, so it is wonderful for some of them to finally be taking this first step back on the road to recovery.

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

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
Person sat in front of an open laptop wearing headphones and programming music.

MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield

The MU are hosting a roundtable discussion, ‘The Long Play: Building a Sustainable Career in Music’, at Sensoria Pro — a conference exploring innovation across music and the moving image — in Sheffield on Friday 23 October. Members can also receive a 25% discount on tickets.

Published: 15 October 2026

Read more about MU to Host Sustainable Careers Roundtable at Sensoria Pro in Sheffield
Six women on stage in front of an audience. Behind them is a screen saying

‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music

Donne Women in Music’s latest report reveals how underrepresented composers receive a smaller share of orchestral programme time than their share of programmed works, highlighting persistent inequalities in global repertoire.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about ‘Measuring Minutes’: Taking Stock of Representation in Global Orchestral Programming with Donne Women in Music
Poppy and her band at the poolside performing live. People are in the water, in rings and inflatables watching. Banners and balloons are behind the band.

Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician

After turning a love of swimming into a fully funded EP, music video and poolside live show, young musician and Wales & South West England Regional Committee member Poppy Rose reflects on the value of backing yourself, embracing niche ideas and making opportunities happen on your own terms.

Published: 14 October 2026

Read more about Making Waves: Creating Your Own Opportunities as an Independent Musician