skip to main content

The Cultural Recovery Fund: A Lifeline for The Music Industry

The MU is delighted to see that the first round of funding for the arts sector has kept 1385 English arts organisations afloat.

Published: 13 October 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a performer on stage with a guitar, there are blue backlights.
Whilst the support is welcomed, we still need venues to be able to open their doors and get musicians working again. Photo credit: Shutterstock

On Monday 12 October, Arts Council of England (ACE) announced the first round of funding awards to 1385 varying arts organisations from grass roots music venues to opera companies, dance studios to museums.

Just over £257 million of the £1.57 Billion has been spent to support the arts in England. Music received the highest share with 394 organisations funded meaning a 29% share equalling nearly £69 million.

Our National Organiser Live Performance, Dave Webster, responded to the news:

“Whilst the support to ensure that these myriad English arts organisations can stay afloat is welcomed, we still need them to be able to open their doors and get musicians working again. The money only goes so far – it's the business of entertainment that a needs a long term solution.

“That long term solution comes when audiences are confident enough to come back to enjoying music performed live.

“We wait to see how the devolved nations will distribute their tranche of money and look forward to the next distribution announcement. For now, we hope that our world-renowned cultural infrastructure can keep its head above the Covid water.”

Take action now

Join our urgent call to the Government to do more, in order to safeguard the future of the UK’s music culture and industry – ask your MP to make your voice heard in Parliament.

You can use our template letter if you’re not sure what to say. Remember to include how you are affected too – personal stories make all the difference.

Write to your MP now.

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, side view, of an old piano with ivory keys.

The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species

The Ivory Act 2018 has now been extended to cover the common hippopotamus, killer whale, narwhal and sperm whale. These Regulations, which come into force on 28 January, may impact those who intend to sell, purchase or hire musical instruments containing ivory.

Published: 21 January 2025

Read more about The Ivory Act 2018 is Being Extended to Cover Four Additional Species
Steve playing fiddle live in front of a microphone on a stand.

Tribute to Steve Simpson

Steve Simpson was a successful and talented musician who played guitar, mandolin, fiddle and performed vocals across the UK and internationally. He originally joined the MU in 1974. This tribute has been provided by his partner, Caroline Morgan.

Published: 21 January 2025

Read more about Tribute to Steve Simpson