News & Stories for Musicians

Close up of CJ's hands playing steel guitar with pics on fingers against a lit up dark background.

Pedal Power: The Story of CJ Hillman

CJ Hillman is one of the finest session players in his field, valued by artists for his tasteful playing and for always serving the song.

Published: 17 August 2022

Black and white image of a man in silhouette on stage, under the spotlight with a guitar.

Analysis of the Competition and Markets Authority Report on Music Streaming

Here MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl provides members with an in-depth analysis of the CMA’s report on music streaming, including top line statistics and where we should now focus our campaigning efforts moving forward.

Published: 15 August 2022

Dollar bills visible in busker's guitar case on cobbled street.

MU Backs Buskers in Birmingham Noise Ban

The Union fiercely opposes a new ‘noise ban’ in Birmingham which will see buskers face a £1,000 fine for performing in key city center areas.

Published: 12 August 2022

Young French woman with a cloth face mask photographed in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, during the Coronavirus pandemic..

France Lifts All Covid Restrictions

This latest update received by the MU sets out the new Covid provisions in France.

Published: 11 August 2022

Female teacher is sitting with one of her students in a music lesson at school. He is learning to play the keyboard and is wearing headphones.

A National Music Service for England: Responses to the Proposal

One week on from The Fabian Society’s proposal for a new National Music Service, we look at press feedback and what key publications have to say.

Published: 11 August 2022

Hands touching sound mixing desk buttons.

Success for MU’s Recording and Broadcasting Team

The team has administered its biggest ever distribution this month and have already paid out over £730k this year so far.

Published: 11 August 2022

Brightly dressed protestors raise banners with Extinction Rebellion symbols and words such as

Climate and Environment: Sustainable Practices and Challenges for Touring Musicians

As Covid-19 restrictions dissipate but the environmental crisis grows, we’ve been looking at the artists engaging in sustainable practices and the challenges they face as they return to touring.

Published: 10 August 2022

Wooden blocks making the shape of a house, featuring images for clothing, housing, food and medical items, representing the building blocks of essential daily life.

Cost Of Living Crisis: What The MU Is Doing

Along with working alongside the TUC to call for an immediate emergency budget, we have also launched a new advice and information hub for members.

Published: 09 August 2022

Black and white close up image of mixing desk and open laptop in soft focus.

Have Your Say on the Competition and Markets Authority Music Streaming Decision

Tell the Competition and Markets Authority what you think about the decision not to go ahead with a full market investigation into music streaming.

Published: 08 August 2022

Music teacher points at a score as a child looks and plays on a trumpet

New Proposals for a National Music Service Released by the Fabian Society

The MU has worked with the Fabian Society, who have released the report today, recommending that Labour in Westminster creates a National Music Education Service for England.

Published: 04 August 2022

Organist with painted nails playing a pipe organ, closeup view of hands and keys.

The MU Deal for RCO Members

The organ is alive and well in the 2020s. And if you play it, MU membership is cheaper than ever.

Published: 03 August 2022

Portrait of composer Mark Gordon against plain background.

Music Works Podcast Talks Composers Against Buyouts

Music Works host Katie Manasse spoke to composer Mark Gordon about the Composers Against Buyouts campaign.

Published: 01 August 2022

Shadow DCMS Minister Backs Musicians After Disappointing Competition and Markets Authority Result

Labour and Co-operative MP and Shadow Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Lucy Powell voices her support for musicians.

Published: 28 July 2022

Gal-dem and Vice Join Forces to Publish ‘Open Secrets’ Series

Open Secrets is a collaboration between Gal-dem and VICE that explores abusive behaviour in the music industry – and how it has been left unchecked for too long.

Published: 28 July 2022

All 5 members of the band, three around a circular wooden table and the other two perched behind on the back of the couch. There is dark lighting and the seats are velvet red to contrast the dark wall

Unleash The Fury: A Metal Five-Piece Smashing Genre Cliches

With fourth album Born To Sin, West Midlands metallers Fury are back after the pandemic with a renewed love for making music. Here’s the story behind their rise.

Published: 27 July 2022

Esther McVey and a crowd of musicians with protest signs saying 'fix streaming' outside of parliament for the 2021 campaign demo.

MU Reacts to Competition and Markets Authority Report Published Today

The CMA has announced that it will not be proceeding with a full market investigation into music streaming.

Published: 26 July 2022

Silhouette of women holding her head in her hands in front of an open window, while the same figure appears in the background, arms raised representing she has overcome anxiety.

Looking at Anxiety: The Feldenkrais Method for Musicians

Feldenkrais teacher Emma Alter looks at the neurophysiology of anxiety and how the Feldenkrais method can help performers.

Published: 26 July 2022

Stephen Brown MU Midlands Regional Organiser; Louise Braithwaite MU vice-Chair Midlands Regional Committee; Rob Johnston TUC Policy and Campaigns Officer. All smiling holding a copy of the MoU.

MU Signs Agreement with Commonwealth Games to Ensure Fair Pay For Artists

The landmark agreement has been signed by Commonwealth Games organisers and cultural sector unions, including the MU, to ensure diversity, fair pay and support for creative sector workers during the Games.

Published: 25 July 2022

Man using calculator to count money savings and living costs. Calculator with coins and notebook on wooden table.

MU Supports New Disability Poverty Campaign Group

The new coalition calls for a thorough reassessment of social security support for disabled people, and members are encouraged to write to their MP using the Action Network Tool below.

Published: 21 July 2022

Silhouette of rising sun over the mountains in early morning

A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

Naomi Pohl, the new MU General Secretary, outlines plans for returning to work, improving our culture for staff and members and – given we’re all involved in music – listening more closely to each other.

Published: 21 July 2022

Member only Read more about A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

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MU Responds to APPG Report Which Sets to Remove Barriers To EU Tours and Help Boost UK Music Industry

The new APPG Report provides details on the action the Government should take to help UK musicians and crew tour Europe more easily.

Published: 20 July 2022

NFTs For Musicians, its Opportunities and Pitfalls

Bored Apes, blockchains, HODLers and fungibility – the world of NFTs can seem indecipherable from the outside. Yet the technology behind the phenomenon has real potential to change the music industry.

Published: 20 July 2022

Golden opera mask and a white wooden fan on a bright turquoise background

MU Reiterates Black Face Position Statement

The reiteration comes following the Arena di Verona’s summer festival’s decision to darken performers skin for their roles in Verdi’s Aida, and their subsequent defence of this decision.

Published: 18 July 2022

3D graphic map of the UK and rest of Europe. UK and EU flag designs are over each area and 3D trucks wait at each side of the crossing showing the difficulty transporting goods.

Brexit Update and New Head of International Role at The MU

Dave Webster, former National Organiser for Live Performance has recently been appointed as Head of International at the MU. Here he brings members an update on our work to address the impact of Brexit for musicians.

Published: 15 July 2022

Side view of Manchester bar at the nighttime with red neon sign saying 'Going out is the new staying in' after lockdown restirctions were eased last year.

The Road To Recovery: Musicians and Covid

Almost one year after restrictions began to lift, how is the fallout from Covid affecting UK musicians on the ground? Here artists across a range of genres share their experiences and assess the need for a fairer music industry.

Published: 13 July 2022

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MU Welcomes News That Paul Nowak Is Set To Become New TUC General Secretary

Paul Nowak, TUC Deputy General Secretary, is set to succeed Frances O’Grady as TUC General Secretary when she retires at the end of the year.

Published: 12 July 2022

Close up of a mix of children stacking hands, representing inclusion and teamwork.

Trinity College London Launches First Ever Fully-Inclusive Music Qualifications in Association with Sounds of Intent

Available from September 2022, the qualifications will be open to any UK school or other organisation that works with learners with special educational needs, additional support needs or disabilities.

Published: 12 July 2022

A policeman with hands behind his back in front of 10 Downing Street in London.

MU Reacts to Prime Minister’s Resignation

Further to the news that Boris Johnson has resigned as leader of the Conservative Party and UK Prime Minister, the MU reflects on what musicians need from the Government now.

Published: 08 July 2022

Close up of musical icons on on wooden cubes/blocks. Icons include: microphone, headphones, loud speaker, radio, and vinyl discs.

MU Meets with Leader of Labour Party

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl met with Labour leader Keir Starmer this week to talk through the Union’s policy priorities.

Published: 06 July 2022

A woman is busking with a guitar and microphone on a busy London street, with a phone set up to take contactless payments

A Guide to Card Readers

Whether you’re busking or selling merch after a gig, the card reader is now a vital tool in the modern musician’s kit. Neil Crossley asks various artists for tips on how to choose and use these devices, so they keep you busy earning.

Published: 06 July 2022

MU Attends TUC LGBT+ Conference

A motion on the need for specialist LGBT+ mental health services was passed at the conference last week.

Published: 05 July 2022

Stacked cardboard boxes next to a cotton sack with a large euro symbol on.

Watch a Recording of Our 'Taking and Selling Merchandise in the EU' Webinar

In June HW Fisher and the MU’s Head of International Dave Webster presented a webinar for members entitled ‘Taking and Selling Merchandise in the EU’ and the video is now available to watch back.

Published: 04 July 2022

Member only Read more about Watch a Recording of Our 'Taking and Selling Merchandise in the EU' Webinar

Microphone next to laptop, displaying the equipment needed for a podcast.

MU Sponsors New Series of Classical Music Podcast Music Works

Music Works is a podcast that explores how the classical music industry works today and how it can work better in the future, with the first episode in the new series featuring MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl.

Published: 30 June 2022

Flat lay of musician and sound engineer items such as a guitar, mixer, microphone, keyboard, cables, note pad and headphones. Image has a vintage style filter.

As a Romani Gypsy and LGBTQ+ Person, Musician Stephe Meloy Highlights the Importance of Being True to Yourself

In this informative and thought-provoking piece, MU member Stephe Meloy discusses what it means to celebrate both LGBTQ+ Pride and Gypsy Roma Traveller History months.

Published: 30 June 2022

Group of 5 women from behind, showing solidarity by linking arms behind their backs.

Information for Members Wishing to Take Action Further to Roe V Wade Ruling

Resources for members wishing to stand in solidary with the fight to defend abortion rights in the US.

Published: 27 June 2022

White official papers, blank, with text saying HM Government with the crest in top left corner.

Government Publishes New National Plan for Music Education

The document, which applies in England only, sets out the Government's vision for music education running to 2030. Various supporting materials have also been published. Here is what teaching musicians need to know.

Published: 27 June 2022

Microphone on the background of the National Flag of Afghanistan, realistic 3d illustration.

Overcoming Adversity to Play Again: A Refugee’s Story

In recognition of Refugee Week 2022, Musician and Associate Prof. Dr. Waheedullah Saghar (former head of the Music Department for the Faculty of Fine Arts at Kabul University) speaks of his experiences of being a refugee, and how music helps to keep our stories alive across continents.

Published: 24 June 2022

A crowd/parade with LGBT rainbow flags in the air, out of focus apart from one hand outstretched holding a flag in the foreground.

“The MU LGBT+ Network Meetings Offer a Comforting Camaraderie”: A Members’ Story

EDI Committee member Lynn Henderson shares her experience of attending the LGBT+ Network meetings, being on the EDI committee and seeing how change is made at the MU.

Published: 24 June 2022

River Clyde, Glasgow at Night towards the Squinty Bridge which is lit in purple and reflected in the water beneath.

Unions Declare Cost-of-Living Emergency in Scotland

The MU attended last weeks’ summit in Glasgow where the STUC and Poverty Alliance made key demands of the Scottish Government.

Published: 23 June 2022

Silhouette of woman standing on a mountain/hill with her right arm in the air, the background is an orange sunrise in the clouds, representing success

MU Member Receives PRS Foundation Composers’ Award

Helen Epega of The Venus Bushfires is one of seven composers to receive the 2022 award from the PRS Foundation.

Published: 23 June 2022

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Pedal Power: The Story of CJ Hillman

Analysis of the Competition and Markets Authority Report on Music Streaming

MU Backs Buskers in Birmingham Noise Ban

France Lifts All Covid Restrictions

A National Music Service for England: Responses to the Proposal

Success for MU’s Recording and Broadcasting Team

Climate and Environment: Sustainable Practices and Challenges for Touring Musicians

Cost Of Living Crisis: What The MU Is Doing

Have Your Say on the Competition and Markets Authority Music Streaming Decision

New Proposals for a National Music Service Released by the Fabian Society

The MU Deal for RCO Members

Music Works Podcast Talks Composers Against Buyouts

Shadow DCMS Minister Backs Musicians After Disappointing Competition and Markets Authority Result

Gal-dem and Vice Join Forces to Publish ‘Open Secrets’ Series

Unleash The Fury: A Metal Five-Piece Smashing Genre Cliches

MU Reacts to Competition and Markets Authority Report Published Today

Looking at Anxiety: The Feldenkrais Method for Musicians

MU Signs Agreement with Commonwealth Games to Ensure Fair Pay For Artists

MU Supports New Disability Poverty Campaign Group

A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

MU Responds to APPG Report Which Sets to Remove Barriers To EU Tours and Help Boost UK Music Industry

NFTs For Musicians, its Opportunities and Pitfalls

MU Reiterates Black Face Position Statement

Brexit Update and New Head of International Role at The MU

The Road To Recovery: Musicians and Covid

MU Welcomes News That Paul Nowak Is Set To Become New TUC General Secretary

Trinity College London Launches First Ever Fully-Inclusive Music Qualifications in Association with Sounds of Intent

MU Reacts to Prime Minister’s Resignation

MU Meets with Leader of Labour Party

A Guide to Card Readers

MU Attends TUC LGBT+ Conference

Watch a Recording of Our 'Taking and Selling Merchandise in the EU' Webinar

MU Sponsors New Series of Classical Music Podcast Music Works

As a Romani Gypsy and LGBTQ+ Person, Musician Stephe Meloy Highlights the Importance of Being True to Yourself

Information for Members Wishing to Take Action Further to Roe V Wade Ruling

Government Publishes New National Plan for Music Education

Overcoming Adversity to Play Again: A Refugee’s Story

“The MU LGBT+ Network Meetings Offer a Comforting Camaraderie”: A Members’ Story

Unions Declare Cost-of-Living Emergency in Scotland

MU Member Receives PRS Foundation Composers’ Award