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
Search

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.

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

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Silhouette of crowd with their hands in the air, watching a small outdoor stage, lit by blue lights. Confetti falls from the sky.

MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost

The MU has welcomed the launch of the Northern Music Export Office (NMEO), calling it a significant step towards creating more opportunities for musicians across the North and helping artists build sustainable careers at home while reaching audiences worldwide.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about MU Welcomes Launch of Northern Music Export Office and UKAT Fund Boost
Jack onstage as an older man, wearing a white shirt and playing trombone.

Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free

Jack Free was a talented trombonist who performed alongside some of the great names in jazz during a career spanning more than six decades. He was a proud and long-standing member of the Musicians’ Union, having originally joined in 1956. This tribute has been written by his son, Colin.

Published: 25 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to John 'Jackie' Free
Close up of a Germany visa stamp on a passport.

New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany

New MU guidance outlines the rules for musicians working in Germany, including work permit exemptions, visa requirements and key considerations for performers accepting engagements in the country.

Published: 20 August 2026

Read more about New Guidance for Musicians Working in Germany
All news and features