skip to main content

Singing, Brass and Woodwind Restrictions Relaxed in Scotland

New guidance from the Scottish Government means that singers, and brass and woodwind players, can rehearse in groups, provided certain conditions are met.

Published: 18 September 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Trumpet player in a red t-shirt performing to an audience who are blurred in the background. Just the hands of the player are visable.
The relaxation of the restrictions will make a real difference for singers and brass and woodwind players. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The new guidance from the Scottish Government states that professional singers, brass and woodwind players can play in groups indoors and outdoors – provided that they keep a distance of two-metres between them. This is down from the three-metres of distance previously required for professionals.

Non-professional musicians can also play in groups indoors and outdoors, provided they follow the Scottish Government’s permitted numbers for social distancing – which is currently six people from a maximum of two households (excluding children under 12 from those households). Non-professionals are also required to stick to two-metre distancing measures.

We’re waiting for clarification on how this new relaxation of restrictions may affect singing, brass and woodwind music in schools and will be updating members when we know more. Members note that local restrictions will still apply in all cases.

The relaxation of restrictions will make a real difference

Our National Organiser for Scotland, Caroline Sewell, welcomed this news:

“The MU welcome this latest update to the Performing Arts and Venues guidance and the relaxation of the restrictions which will make a real difference for singers and brass and woodwind players, both professional and those involved with non-professional music making.

“We will continue liaise with the Scottish Government and the wider music sector on this guidance and members should contact the Scotland and Northern Ireland Regional Office for any questions they may have relating to their work.”

For further details, see the Scottish Government’s Performing Arts and Venues guidance for Playing Music.

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