skip to main content

Solidarity and the Cost of Living Crisis

The MU would like to express solidarity with other union workers who are on strike this week, including nurses, postal workers and railway staff.

Published: 16 December 2022 | 11:48 AM
Red post box stands in front of a brick wall in the bright sunshine.
As ever, we are behind every musician, wherever our members are based and whatever their circumstances. Photo credit: Shutterstock

With inflation still at over 10% and interest rates rising again this week, the squeeze on living standards has never been more desperate and we stand with all workers fighting to get a fair pay rise and a protection of their terms and conditions.

We continue to fight hard for our own members, through, for example, challenging ACE funding cuts, reclaiming unpaid monies and negotiating with employers and getting significant rate increases. We’ve also distributed over £1 million in royalties this year.

If the Government want to see growth, they must invest in working people

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl commented:

“At this very difficult time, with the public purse tightening and living costs rising, we stand with colleagues across the trade union movement to demand a better deal. If the Government want to see growth, they must invest in working people.

“The MU is working harder than ever to generate and recover money for its members; whether through chasing unpaid fees, negotiating pay rises or distributing royalties. We are conscious of our members’ financial stresses and we are here to offer advice and support on a wide range of issues.

“As ever, we are behind every musician, wherever our members are based and whatever their circumstances.”

Please visit our cost of living hub for more details and contact your regional office if you need any assistance.

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