News & Stories for Musicians

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MU Highlights AI, Touring and More at Labour Party Conference 2026

The Musicians' Union met with the Prime Minister, ministers and MPs at a hopeful Labour Conference, raising AI, EU touring, protecting the BBC's music future and arts funding.

Published: 07 October 2026

Andy Burnham wearing a suit standing against a red backdrop with white lettering.

Prime Minister Puts Hope Front and Centre in Labour Party Conference Speech

Andy Burnham delivered his first Leader's Speech as Prime Minister at Labour Party Conference in Liverpool.

Published: 30 September 2026

Four people standing with 'Back your buskers' plackards with the Westminster building in the background

MU Buskers Bring Westminster Campaign to Parliament

Buskers working in Westminster took their campaign for viable, accessible pitches across the borough to Parliament.

Published: 29 September 2026

Naomi Pohl giving speech at the Labour Partty Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl Spotlights Jobs for Young Musicians at Labour Party Conference 2026

In a speech to Labour Conference, MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl raised the need for opportunity, jobs and career progression for young musicians.

Published: 28 September 2026

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New Freelance Champions Appointed to Represent Creative Workers in Government

Two new Freelance Champions have been appointed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to ensure the voices of creative freelancers are better represented in Government policymaking.

Published: 17 September 2026

Music Qualifications Reform Debated in House of Lords

Peers from across the political spectrum raised concerns about the Government’s proposed reforms to level 3 music qualifications, with ministers confirming that existing qualifications will remain in place until at least 2030 and announcing a new creative advisory board to help shape the reforms.

Published: 28 July 2026

Young man at a sound desk in a recording studio, sat looking at the screen.

Three Things New Prime Minister Andy Burnham Could Do for Music and Musicians Now

As new Prime Minister Andy Burnham takes office, here are three things he can do to support music and musicians right now.

Published: 24 July 2026

View of a stage lit up in white light, from the perspective of a crowd looking up.

MU Welcomes Business Rates Cuts But Urges Government Not to Forget Artists

Today the government has announced a 20% cut to business rates bills for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April next year.

Published: 23 July 2026

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UK Music Invites Northern Ireland Composers, Songwriters and Performers to Manifesto Roundtable

Composers, songwriters and performers in Northern Ireland are invited to join a UK Music online roundtable to help inform their manifesto asks ahead of the Northern Ireland Assembly elections.

Published: 17 July 2026

MU Nominates Andy Burnham for Labour Leader

The Musicians' Union has officially nominated Andy Burnham to be the next leader of the Labour Party.

Published: 16 July 2026

Prime Minister Keir Starmer Has Announced His Resignation

The MU would like to thank Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his commitments to improving workers’ rights and improving the lives of musicians.

Published: 22 June 2026

Four people, including MU Assistant General Secretary Matt Wanstall and Andy Burnham, holding signs saying

MU Congratulates Andy Burnham on Makerfield By-Election Success

The MU joined fellow affiliated trade unions in backing Andy Burnham's successful Makerfield by-election campaign, reflecting a longstanding working relationship.

Published: 19 June 2026

A bag full of an assortment of musical instruments in a school classroom.

MU Addresses MPs on Music Education

The MU addressed MPs on music education, warning that stagnant funding, university course closures and worsening conditions for teachers are putting the future of music education at risk. The General Secretary also followed up on her meeting with Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Published: 15 June 2026

Portrait of the Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

MU General Secretary Discusses Music Education Funding with Chancellor

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl met Chancellor Rachel Reeves yesterday at a TULO meeting to raise concerns about long-standing underfunding of music education and called for it to be increased in line with inflation.

Published: 04 June 2026

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MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance

Following the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s (EHRC) draft updated Code of Practice, the MU is seeking information on what the new guidance means for trans, nonbinary and intersex members. We encourage anyone facing discrimination to contact their regional office for support.

Published: 27 May 2026

MU Responds to King's Speech and Current Political Events

The MU responds to measures affecting musicians in the King's Speech, and what next for the Labour Party in Westminster.

Published: 13 May 2026

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The Arts and Minds Campaign: One Year On

One year after its launch, our Arts and Minds Campaign has helped put arts education back on the Government’s agenda. The next challenge is ensuring those commitments deliver meaningful change for teachers and pupils.

Published: 01 May 2026

A musician in a recording studio sitting in front of a computer with a keyboard next to him.

Sign the Petition for Fair Work in Scotland’s Creative Industries

With Scotland’s elections fast approaching, we’re calling on musicians to help secure real change by signing the petition for Fair Work across the nation’s creative industries.

Published: 02 April 2026

Commercial Court in the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Pictured are historic pubs down a cobbled street, and a set of murals and decorated dangling umbrellas.

MU Backs Free The Night Campaign for Licensing Reform in Northern Ireland

MU members are being urged to sign an open letter supporting the Free The Night campaign, which is calling for reform of Northern Ireland’s restrictive licensing system.

Published: 01 April 2026

Naomi Pohl and Dave Webster outside the European Parliament building.

MU Joins Policymakers in Brussels to Discuss UK–EU Cultural Exchange

This week, the MU joined a creative industries delegation in Brussels to discuss strengthening cultural exchange between the UK and the EU, including removing barriers to cross-border touring.

Published: 25 March 2026

A world map of the middle east with the Iranian flag pinned on Iran.

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Alongside the TUC, the MU condemns the dangerous escalation of military actions, precipitated by the US-Israeli attacks on Iran that flout international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Published: 18 March 2026

A placard at a march against the far right.

Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right

Join us on Saturday 28 March for what’s expected to be the UK’s largest anti‑racist march. Find out how to join the MU delegation and explore our new Anti‑Far Right Hub to learn how far‑right movements operate and how to challenge them.

Published: 17 March 2026

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

Inside of the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood, empty wooden seats sit in a half circle around the main speaking stage with screens.

Scottish Election 2026: Where Parties Stand on Musicians’ Priorities

At the recent Culture Counts election hustings, representatives from Scotland’s major parties addressed key issues facing musicians. Here’s how their positions align with the MU's priorities ahead of the 2026 Holyrood election.

Published: 03 March 2026

The UK and EU flags, waved together in front of Big Ben in London.

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

The EU/UK Culture Forum has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to rejoin Creative Europe from 2027. The programme supports funding and cultural collaboration across Europe, and the MU is encouraging members to sign and show their support.

Published: 26 February 2026

MU members and Senedd candidates infront of an MU banner.

MU Members Meet Senedd Candidates to Highlight Music’s Role in Wales’s Economy and Communities

Welsh MU members met Labour Senedd candidates to discuss the future of the music industry in Wales, presenting the Union’s manifesto priorities for fair pay, strong public investment, and long-term sustainability across the sector ahead of the 7 May elections.

Published: 19 February 2026

The BBC Symphony Orchestra onstage at th BBC Proms. A huge crowd watches in a lit up room.

Protect Our BBC: Your Chance to Shape its Future

As the BBC Charter comes up for renewal, the MU is urging members to respond to the consultation and support the vital role the BBC plays in sustaining jobs, commissioning new work and underpinning the UK’s music industry. Use our template email to have your say before 10 March.

Published: 19 February 2026

A person in a crowd holds up a handmade cardboard sign reading “Refugees Welcome” in large green letters with a small red heart. Other protest signs are visible blurred in the background.

March Against the Far Right: Join the MU for the Together Alliance Demo in London

Join the MU at the Together Alliance march in London on Saturday 28 March for a major national demonstration against the far right.

Published: 17 February 2026

MU Calls on Political Parties and Candidates to Back Musicians’ Manifesto for Wales Ahead of Senedd Election

Add your voice to the call for action to improve cultural provision and musicians’ careers across Wales.

Published: 17 February 2026

Person walking into a venue with a cello case on their back.

Musical Instrument Certificates to Remain Free of Charge

Following results from a recent consultation by the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Musical Instrument Certificates will remain free of charge for musicians travelling with instruments containing endangered materials.

Published: 10 February 2026

A protest against ICE on the streets of Minnesota.

MU Condemns Use of Sonic Weapons in the US

Reports are circulating that the National Guard is using Long-Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs) in Minnesota.

Published: 04 February 2026

Group of seven people, named in the caption, standing together in a regal Parliament building.

MU Gives Evidence on EU Touring to MPs on Select Committee

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl spoke to MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee about touring in the EU, alongside musician Kate Nash and Hanna Madalska-Gayer at the Association of British Musicians (ABO).

Published: 03 February 2026

Young women playing keyboard in front of a mic and pop shield in a home studio. Behind her is a young man playing acoustic guitar.

MU Calls on MSPs to Back Musicians' Manifesto for Scotland Ahead of May Elections

Add your voice to the call for concrete commitments on musicians’ rights, music education and the future of Scottish music.

Published: 02 February 2026

Afternoon shot of Liverpool's Cavern Quarter with bars and music venues lit up.

MU Welcomes Major Regional Creative Industries Funding Boost

The MU welcomes a new £27 million government funding package, with regions across the UK invited to bid for investment aimed at strengthening creative industry clusters and building on Liverpool City Region’s success in music innovation and growth.

Published: 26 January 2026

Inside a small dark venue with vibrant rainbow lights, the crowd and band on stage are in silhouette.

Government Announces 5% Funding Uplift for Arts Organisations – Part of a £1.5bn Package to Protect Cultural Venues

New funding for cultural organisations aims to save and protect 1,000 local arts and culture venues across England, with a focus on pride in place and national renewal.

Published: 22 January 2026

Interior of the Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh, Scotland.

MU Responds to Scottish Budget 2026-27

While the Musicians' Union welcomes the Scottish Government's increase to Culture spend, we are concerned about the lack of funding for individual artists and those engaged by the National Performing Companies (NPCs).

Published: 15 January 2026

The outside of the BBC Headquarters building.

BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch

The MU has joined sister unions in writing to Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy to reiterate the key principles that should underpin the BBC Charter Review process.

Published: 18 December 2025

Black and white image of a conductor in front of the orchestra pit in a theatre, cast members are on stage in the background out of focus.

MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review

We broadly welcome Baroness Margaret Hodge’s review of Arts Council England, which reflects many of the concerns raised by the MU and other creative unions. We will now press the government to respond positively to its recommendations.

Published: 18 December 2025

Naomi Pohl at Labour Party Conference 2024 holding a placard that says 'Labour's New Deal for Working People'.

Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law

The MU welcomes passage of the Employment Rights Bill, which will now become law. Shaped by trade union input, the legislation represents an important step forward for workers’ rights, equality and protections, with further reforms for freelancers promised in a second phase.

Published: 16 December 2025

The Scottish flag, flying over an old stone building in Edinburgh.

Task Force Sets Out New Fair Work Recommendations for Scotland’s Creative Industries

The landmark Fair Work Task Force report outlines 16 recommendations to tackle precarious employment, strengthen workers’ rights and improve conditions across Scotland’s culture and creative industries.

Published: 11 December 2025

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MU Highlights AI, Touring and More at Labour Party Conference 2026

Prime Minister Puts Hope Front and Centre in Labour Party Conference Speech

MU Buskers Bring Westminster Campaign to Parliament

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl Spotlights Jobs for Young Musicians at Labour Party Conference 2026

New Freelance Champions Appointed to Represent Creative Workers in Government

Music Qualifications Reform Debated in House of Lords

Three Things New Prime Minister Andy Burnham Could Do for Music and Musicians Now

MU Welcomes Business Rates Cuts But Urges Government Not to Forget Artists

UK Music Invites Northern Ireland Composers, Songwriters and Performers to Manifesto Roundtable

MU Nominates Andy Burnham for Labour Leader

Prime Minister Keir Starmer Has Announced His Resignation

MU Congratulates Andy Burnham on Makerfield By-Election Success

MU Addresses MPs on Music Education

MU General Secretary Discusses Music Education Funding with Chancellor

MU Stands With Trans, Nonbinary and Intersex Musicians Following New EHRC Guidance

MU Responds to King's Speech and Current Political Events

The Arts and Minds Campaign: One Year On

Sign the Petition for Fair Work in Scotland’s Creative Industries

MU Backs Free The Night Campaign for Licensing Reform in Northern Ireland

MU Joins Policymakers in Brussels to Discuss UK–EU Cultural Exchange

MU Statement on Conflict in Iran

Together Alliance March: Join the MU in the Fight Against the Far Right

New Rules for Pernambuco Bows Come into Force

Scottish Election 2026: Where Parties Stand on Musicians’ Priorities

MU Backs Petition Urging UK to Rejoin Creative Europe Programme

MU Members Meet Senedd Candidates to Highlight Music’s Role in Wales’s Economy and Communities

Protect Our BBC: Your Chance to Shape its Future

March Against the Far Right: Join the MU for the Together Alliance Demo in London

MU Calls on Political Parties and Candidates to Back Musicians’ Manifesto for Wales Ahead of Senedd Election

Musical Instrument Certificates to Remain Free of Charge

MU Condemns Use of Sonic Weapons in the US

MU Gives Evidence on EU Touring to MPs on Select Committee

MU Calls on MSPs to Back Musicians' Manifesto for Scotland Ahead of May Elections

MU Welcomes Major Regional Creative Industries Funding Boost

Government Announces 5% Funding Uplift for Arts Organisations – Part of a £1.5bn Package to Protect Cultural Venues

MU Responds to Scottish Budget 2026-27

BEAU Statement on BBC Charter Review Launch

MU Welcomes Arts Council England Review

Landmark Employment Rights Bill Becomes Law

Task Force Sets Out New Fair Work Recommendations for Scotland’s Creative Industries