Support the Classical Music Sector by Taking ACE’s Diversity Survey

Arts Council England (ACE) have recently launched a survey to explore diversity in the classical music sector.

Published: 05 March 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM

Photograph of man raising conductors baton. — The MU fully endorses this important piece of work and encourages all members working in the classical music sector to complete it. Photo credit: Shutterstock

ACE are keen to hear from a broad range of those associated with classical music – including instrumentalists, teachers and administrative and other support staff, including learning and participation professionals.

They hope that the research will help the classical sector be better equipped to ensure its continuing relevance to contemporary society – and send a strong message that it is genuinely open to anyone with passion and talent, whoever they are and wherever they’re from.

Horace Trubridge, MU General Secretary says:

“The MU fully endorses this important piece of work and encourages all members working in the classical music sector to complete it.

“This research provides an opportunity for us to understand the classical music workforce, routes into it and highlight any barriers to improving diversity.”

Members are encouraged to take the survey, and pass it on to relevant colleagues and friends.

See all news

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

Continue reading

A musician playing guitar and singing into a microphone in a compact home studio.

From Winter Relief to Wellbeing: Spotlight on Support Offered by PRS Members’ Fund

MU members are encouraged to explore PRS Members’ Fund’s wide range of support services for musicians.

Published: 08 January 2026

The European Union flag next to the national flag of Great Britain.

Have Your Say on UK-EU Artist Mobility and Collaboration

Arts Infopoint UK's new survey on UK-EU artist mobility aims to help the arts have a voice and stronger representation in future EU-UK discussions. If you've participated in EU funding programmes, or are working or planning to work on a UK/EU project, we encourage you to take part.

Published: 08 January 2026

Wooden steps on a bright yellow back ground, an arrow is draw over them upwards, to represet the concept of personal development and improvement.

MU Launches Brand New Activist Development Programme for Members

Applications are now open for our new 2026 MU Future Leaders programme, offering underrepresented members the chance to gain campaign expertise, influence union strategy, and build networks across the music sector.

Published: 05 January 2026

The outside of the BBC Headquarters building.

BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch

The MU has joined sister unions in writing to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to reiterate the key principles that should underpin the BBC Charter Review process.

Published: 18 December 2025

Black and white image of a conductor in front of the orchestra pit in a theatre, cast members are on stage in the background out of focus.

MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review

We broadly welcome Baroness Margaret Hodge’s review of Arts Council England, which reflects many of the concerns raised by the MU and other creative unions. We will now press the government to respond positively to its recommendations.