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

Small, dark, empty stage at a grassroots basement style venue. Instruments are ready and fairy lights line the back wall of the stage.

Second Phase of UK Artist Touring Fund Opens with £300,000 Boost

The UK Artist Touring Fund (UKAT), backed by the MU and funded by the LIVE Trust, has expanded its support for UK artists, with an additional £300,000 added to the fund and successful applicants now able to apply for up to £8,000. Applications for this round close on 11 September.

Published: 03 September 2026

Read more about Second Phase of UK Artist Touring Fund Opens with £300,000 Boost
Close up hands holding a pen and paper in front of a keyboard.

Protect Creative Work: AI Petition Passes 10,000 Signatures

The Creators’ Rights Alliance (CRA) has passed 10,000 signatures on its petition calling for greater transparency around copyrighted works used to train generative AI. The MU, a CRA member, fully supports the campaign, which is now aiming for 100,000 signatures.

Published: 28 August 2026

Read more about Protect Creative Work: AI Petition Passes 10,000 Signatures