MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund has been growing and growing. This week, author Philip Pullman recorded a video message to encourage bidding on the item he donated."> MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund has been growing and growing. This week, author Philip Pullman recorded a video message to encourage bidding on the item he donated."> MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund has been growing and growing. This week, author Philip Pullman recorded a video message to encourage bidding on the item he donated.">
skip to main content

Video Message From Author Philip Pullman for Bidders on MU Auction

Our auction to raise money for the MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund has been growing and growing. This week, author Philip Pullman recorded a video message to encourage bidding on the item he donated.

Published: 06 May 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Donation concept
We’re auctioning off items that have been donated to raise money for the MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund. Photo: Shutterstock

Philip Pullman donated an exclusive wooden box, handmade by the author and up for auction to raise money for the MU Coronavirus Hardship Fund.

He also recorded the following video message for us use in promoting the auction on our social media channels.

To see the full range up for auction, including Philip Pullman’s box and other special items like a Grinderman postcard fully autographed by Nick Cave, Warren Ellis, Martyn P Casey and Jim Sclavunos – visit our ebids page.

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

Open hands holding a paper chain of connected people, one is in a wheelchair, representing unity and equality.

New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers

A new research project drawing on the experiences of more than 250 disabled creatives highlights ongoing access barriers in the arts sector. In response, Radical Body has also launched a micro-grant scheme for disabled artists who struggle to leave their homes, applications close 20 April.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about New Report by Radical Body Highlights Barriers Facing Disabled Arts Workers
Tom standing in front of the door to Lio London cabaret (formerly the Café de Paris), in October, 2024.

Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)

Tom O’Connor, a talented drummer who performed in the West End, on multiple cruise ships and even at Queen Elizabeth’s garden party, passed away at the age of 89 in March 2026. He was a lifelong member of the Musicians’ Union for 68 years, having joined in 1958.

Published: 09 April 2026

Read more about Tribute to Thomas William O’Connor (Tommy/Tom)
Diljeet, sat on stage with the panellists, speaking into a microphone.

Challenging Stereotypes in the Music Industry: MU Panel at Launchpad 2026

At the 2026 Launchpad Conference in Leeds, the MU’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, Dr Diljeet Bhachu, led a candid panel with Northern artists exploring identity, representation and the experiences of Global Majority and marginalised musicians in the UK music industry.

Published: 08 April 2026

Read more about Challenging Stereotypes in the Music Industry: MU Panel at Launchpad 2026