Taking Care of a Violin

BBC Symphony Orchestra leader Stephen Bryant’s violin is so valuable that it needs constant professional care.

By Neil Churchman Published: 14 January 2022 | 7:32 PM Updated: 31 March 2023 | 11:42 AM

This is a member-only area

Join now to access our expert advice and numerous member-only benefits.

Join now

Sign in now for access

Username

Password:

Stay signed in on this computer

Forgot password or username? Reset

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 classroom, where people in the background are out of focus playing acoustic guitar, the neck of a guitar is in the foreground close up and in focus.

MU Welcomes New Guidance on Protecting Children and Educators From AI-Generated Image Abuse

The new advice highlights the risks of sharing images online and offers practical steps to help keep children, young people and adults safe.

Published: 04 June 2026

Call for Artists: Help UK Access EU Funding Through Creative Europe Programme

UK musicians are missing out on major EU funding. Help the Forum on EU-UK Cultural & Media Relations advocate for the UK joining Creative Europe by submitting a short testimonial.

Published: 04 June 2026

The inside of Kempston Street Studios in Liverpool.

New Member Discount at Kempston Street Studios in Liverpool

The Musicians’ Union has teamed up with Kempston Street Studios in Liverpool, to offer members discounted studio time.

Published: 01 June 2026

Two female session musicians in the studio, one playing bass and the other singing into a microphone. The sound technician is sitting at the mixing desk, turned towards them.

Over £3 Million Returned to Musicians Through MU Support in 2025

From recovering unpaid fees to distributing royalties, MU services helped secure £3.2 million for musicians in 2025. Your membership pays off.

Published: 29 May 2026

A musician sitting down playing electric guitar on stage.

Applications Open for UK Artists to Showcase at M for Montreal Festival

Emerging UK-based artists can now apply to showcase at M for Montreal, an annual festival taking place in November 2026.