skip to main content

Why Every Musician Should Take Part in the Musicians’ Census 2023

Music Works Podcast spoke to MU member Linton Stephens about the first contemporary Musicians’ Census and why every musician should take it.

Published: 01 March 2023 | 10:00 AM
Portrait of Linton Stephens sat on a row of chairs next to his bassoon.
Linton explains how often the issues musicians face transcend one particular genre, and that the Census is vital in capturing diversity and joined up thinking. Image credit: Chris Stenner.

Freelance bassoonist, BBC Radio 3’s Classical Fix host and Chair of the Union’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Committee Linton Stephens, spoke to the Music Works Podcast about the Musicians’ Census and why every musician should take part.

Linton was joined by the MU’s Head of EDI John Shortell and Help Musicians Deputy Chief Executive Sarah Woods. They spoke about the importance of data, and how your contribution to the Census will ensure better support for the wider music community in the future.

The episode also explores definitions of the term “musician”, how the Census was put together, and the importance of reaching every musician.

Watch the full episode on YouTube, or listen on the go via Spotify, iTunes and Podbean.

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

A woman sat in a park closing her eyes and gently stretching her neck to the side.

Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter

Originally posted on her blog, professional classical musician and Feldenkrais teacher Emma Alter discusses how our neck and spine work together. The rest of this year’s Feldenkrais sessions will follow the theme of ‘Freeing Your Neck’, and are free for MU members.

Published: 18 November 2025

Read more about Exploring Neck Pain Through the Feldenkrais Method with Emma Alter
A close-up of the BBC Scotland building in Glasgow.

BBC Radio Scotland Axes Four Longstanding Music Shows

Four of Scotland's best-known radio shows are due to be dropped by the end of the year and replaced with a new 'easy listening' programme for more mainstream appeal. Sign the petition to help reverse the decision and protect the future of music in Scotland.

Published: 17 November 2025

Read more about BBC Radio Scotland Axes Four Longstanding Music Shows
Percussion instruments in an orchestra.

Orchestra Accessibility Study Seeking Participants

Take part in a study by the University of Glasgow on the physical demands of playing in a professional orchestra, and how support can be improved for both disabled and non-disabled musicians.

Published: 13 November 2025

Read more about Orchestra Accessibility Study Seeking Participants