skip to main content

Ticket Bank Increases Access to Culture During a Difficult Festive Period

The MU has praised the London Ticket Bank scheme for providing unsold theatre tickets to those who cannot afford access to culture.

Published: 23 December 2022 | 12:08 PM
Lots of different coloured tickets in a big pile, each one reading
“The Ticket Bank is a wonderful way for the arts to be available to everyone in society.” Photo credit: Shutterstock

The scheme has been likened to ‘the cultural equivalent of a food bank’ and will make around 1000 tickets available each week for those who cannot afford to pay for theatre, comedy, music and dance.

Some of the capital’s leading cultural institutions, including the Barbican, the National Theatre and the Roundhouse, have signed up for the initiative, with more expected to join in January.

London Regional Organiser Jamie Pullman commented on the scheme:

“The Ticket Bank is a wonderful way for the arts to be available to everyone in society. Food fills your stomach, the arts fill your soul, and both are important for us as humans.

“It’s a damning indictment of the state of our country when so many people can no longer afford either food or fun, but while the generosity of these institutions is helping make lives better, I look forward to the day when they are no longer necessary.”

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

Young Black musician in a wheelchair, working on his music with a keyboard and laptop in a studio.

MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference

The annual Sound City Music Industry Conference is the UK’s leading independent conference for new music. Taking place in Liverpool on 2 May, the MU will host a panel on changing attitudes and perceptions to access requirements for touring artists. Ticket discount is also available to members.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about MU to Host Panel and Workshop at Liverpool Sound City Conference
Leon Slater, sat smiling in an armchair.

Tribute to Leon Slater

Leon Slater was a highly accomplished saxophonist who was devoted to his music. He was a member of the MU for over fifty years and had a life-long passion for jazz. This tribute has been provided by Leon’s wife and family.

Published: 24 April 2025

Read more about Tribute to Leon Slater