skip to main content

Your #MUmoment: Martin Bowen

Orchestral musician Martin Bowen shares his most poignant career moment as part of the Musician Behind the Moment campaign.

Published: 27 July 2018 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:29 PM

Orchestral musician Martin Bowen shares his most poignant career moment as part of the Musician Behind the Moment campaign.

“My #MUmoment is performing as part of my orchestra at a concert for children with disabilities with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.

“I was overjoyed to see these young peoples’ reactions to our music – smiles, surprise, elation, joy.

“I left the hall through the audience and spoke to quite a few of the children. They were all amazing and l left with an enormous smile, very happy.”

What’s your #MUmoment?

Share a moment you’ve been a part of using the hashtag #MUmoment or email orchestral@theMU.org

Already told us your story?

MU members are behind many of the moments you remember forever.

Whether that’s Maxine on the Star Wars soundtrack with the London Symphony Orchestra, Baluji and the British Paraorchestra at London 2012, or Claire witnessing a hard of hearing child experience music for the first time.

Explore their stories and spread the word.

Like what you read? Keep up to date with the latest news and campaigns from the MU on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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

Two young female musicians sat outside, one playing acoustic guitar.

MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026

The Musicians’ Union will take part in Launchpad Conference 2026 on Friday 27 March at Leeds School of Arts, bringing industry insight, a panel on cultural diversity in music, and one-to-one advice sessions for musicians across the North of England.

Published: 10 March 2026

Read more about MU to Host Diversity Panel and Advice Sessions at Launchpad 2026
Close up of wooden violin bow.

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Following a decision at the CITES Conference of the Parties, new rules governing the international trade of pernambuco bows came into force on 5 March 2026. Guidance from the UK CITES authority explains what the changes mean for musicians.

Published: 06 March 2026

Read more about New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force