News & Stories for Musicians

Photograph of a young woman listening to music off her phone on the bus.

MU Moves to Support Girls I Rate as Part of UK Music 10-Point Plan

As part of the 10-Point Plan published by UK Music’s Diversity Taskforce last October, the MU will be supporting equality movement organisation Girls I Rate in their work towards a music industry where women can thrive.

Published: 30 July 2021

A young musician is playfully holding up the seperated parts of a bassoon, looking through one end of one piece.

ABRSM Announces Enriched Woodwind Syllabus Which Aims to Inspire Curiosity of Learners

A new, enriched woodwind syllabus designed to inspire the curiosity of learners and spark interest in music from all corners of the world and by people of all backgrounds has been launched by ABRSM.

Published: 30 July 2021

Photograph of a number of travel crates ready to pack concert equipment in for a tour.

Piping Centre to Give Free Talk on Post-Brexit Working for Musicians

The National Piping Centre in Scotland will be running a free online-workshop, explaining the new Brexit requirements, on Wednesday 11 August at 2:00 pm.

Published: 30 July 2021

Photograph of a young adult walking with a violin case strapped to their back against an urban backdrop.

TUC General Secretary Highlights “Outrageous” HE Funding Cuts in MU Conference Speech

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady sent a strong message of solidarity and support to MU members at the 39th Musicians’ Union Delegate Conference.

Published: 26 July 2021

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Jo Stevens MP Reaffirms Labour’s Commitment to Music at MU Delegate Conference Address

Jo Stevens MP shared a powerful message with MU members at the 39th Musicians’ Union Biennial Delegate Conference.

Published: 23 July 2021

A woman is looking in the mirror and adjusting her hearing aid in the mirror.

Government Response to Consultation on Sexual Harassment Welcomed

The Government has responded to the consultation on sexual harassment with a number of commitments, and the MU wishes to congratulate everyone involved in making this happen, including MU members who contributed to the consultation.

Published: 22 July 2021

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MU Signs TUC Letter Calling For Urgent Reset in The Government’s Approach to LGBT+ Rights

Together with over 38 other unions and the TUC, we have written to equalities minister Liz Truss to call for an urgent reset in the government’s approach to LGBT+ rights.

Published: 22 July 2021

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Second Day of MU Delegate Conference

Topics covered on the second day of the MU Delegate Conference included the climate emergency and how the MU can contribute to sustainability, HE Funding Cuts, Fix Streaming, our Safe Space initiative, and more.

Published: 21 July 2021

Photograph of an empty recital hall, there are two double basses lying on their sides and a lot of empty chairs and music stands.

MU Outrage as Planned Cuts to Government Funding for Higher Education Arts and Music Confirmed

The MU is devastated that the Office for Students has recommended implementing Government funding cuts to Higher Education arts and music subjects.

Published: 20 July 2021

Photograph from the MU Conference in 2019, focusing on a large white speakers podium with

First Day of MU Delegate Conference

Today saw the first day of the MU Delegate Conference 2021, which for the first time ever is being held largely online due to the pandemic.

Published: 20 July 2021

Woman applies hand sanitizer to a child wearing a facemask and a rainbow coloured t-shirt.

Impact of Re-opening in England on Clinically Extremely Vulnerable Members

We fully support We Shall Not Be Removed’s seven inclusive principles, and Art Council England’s statement on inclusive recovery – and wish to state our continued commitment to supporting members and lobbying the Government for better support and clearer guidance.

Published: 20 July 2021

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MU Signs TUC’s Letter of Solidarity With The Professional Footballers' Association

Along with dozens of others we have written to the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) in solidarity with the England team, read the full content of the TUC’s letter.

Published: 19 July 2021

The MU's Joint Open Letter to Department of Transport to Protect Touring in the EU

The MU has warned that Government proposals on haulage risks bringing cost effective, accessible touring for small bands to a ‘full stop’.

Published: 14 July 2021

Photograph of a small model car balancing on the fret board of a guitar.

MU Continues to Support Members Injured on The Road Despite Government Changes

The Government is restricting access to justice with small claims changes – but we will continue to protect you.

Published: 07 July 2021

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All Restrictions in England Due to End on 19 July 2021

Following the announcement from the Prime Minister that all Covid-19 restrictions are set to end in England on Monday 19 July, we discuss how this is likely to affect musicians – and how steps must be taken to make sure members feel secure returning to work.

Published: 06 July 2021

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Brexit Lobbying Update: A Session Characterised by Tension

In this Brexit update we discuss Lord Frost’s first appearance at the DCMS Select Committee, and our plans for moving forward.

Published: 30 June 2021

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Why I Joined: Lizzy Hardingham

Singer-songwriter and folk musician Lizzy Hardingham discusses why she’s glad she was pointed in the MU’s direction.

Published: 30 June 2021

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Jazz Musicians in England Encouraged to Complete APPJAG Questionnaire

The deadline for the questionnaires has now been extended to midnight on 1 August 2021, with results contributing to the All Party Parliamentary Jazz Appreciation Group (APPJAG) Review Of Jazz In England.

Published: 29 June 2021

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The Creative Industry is an Ecosystem That Must be Set Up For All

In this blog, artist manager and UK Music Futures group chair, Amanda Maxwell, discusses how Government cuts to Higher Education Funding could result in the whole industry going back on itself.

Published: 29 June 2021

Blurred photograph of a crowd outdoors, sitting and facing an outdoor stage.

Lobbying Update – MPs Support MU’s Calls For The Government to Allow Music Events

An update on the MU’s lobbying activities following last week’s announcement of the Government’s delay to the Covid-19 roadmap in England.

Published: 24 June 2021

Positive News on US Visas

The visa system brought in by Donald Trump have been rolled back due to pressure from Tamizdat and support from arts organisations across the world, including the MU.

Published: 24 June 2021

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Open Invite to Young Trade Union Members in Scotland to Attend Online STUC Youth Conference

The STUC will be hosting a one-day virtual STUC Youth Conference on Saturday 26 June from 10:00 am - 4:05 pm over zoom, which will be open to all Young Trade Union Members across Scotland as guest participants.

Published: 24 June 2021

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The TUC Publish Report on Long Covid

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has released ground-breaking research into the impact of long covid on workers.

Published: 24 June 2021

Photograph of a guitarist performing on stage, they are sillhouted against a pink light in the background.

New Brexit Campaign #LetTheMusicMove Launches

A new campaign launched by #LetTheMusicMove brought widespread social media action from artists, music professionals and fans across the UK on Wednesday 23 June.

Published: 24 June 2021

Photograph of a young person having a trumpet lesson, standing in a medium sized recital hall.

Open Letter in Opposition to the Government’s Proposed HE Cuts Published

Seven trade unions including the MU have come together to publish an open letter to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, in opposition to the Government’s proposed funding cuts for arts and music subjects.

Published: 23 June 2021

Photo of the Houses of Parliament in London, taken from over the bridge in black and white colours.

New Bill Calls For a Better Deal For Musicians and Songwriters From Streaming

MU member Kevin Brennan MP’s Private Members Bill, calling for a better deal for musicians and songwriters, is backed by eleven cross party MPs including Damian Green and Esther McVey.

Published: 22 June 2021

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The Ivors Academy CEO Graham Davies on The Value of The Song

In this blog, Graham Davies discusses the Fix Streaming campaign, which has been running since the start of Covid-19, and asks the question – if streaming is a song economy, why is the songwriter the last and least to be paid?

Published: 22 June 2021

Black and white photograph of a woman playing an acoustic guitar in front of a laptop, in what appears to be a bedroom.

WIPO Report Backs Up Fix Streaming Campaign’s Key Asks

A new report by the World Intellectual Property Organisation looking at artists in the digital music marketplace backs up key asks in the Fix Streaming campaign.

Published: 18 June 2021

Photograph of a small, empty stage, with drum set, microphone and amplifier set up to play.

Is It Live or Dead: The State of The Live Music Industry in The UK

Dave Webster, National Organiser for Live Performance, discusses the state of the industry in this blog – from the delay in restrictions lifting, through to Brexit, and the audiences desperate to get back to live listening.

Published: 17 June 2021

A Fair Deal from Streaming: Equitable Remuneration for Performers

The MU's #FixStreaming campaign in partnership with the Ivors Academy has been successful in terms of raising awareness with musicians, creators and the public, and with decision makers too.

Published: 16 June 2021

Photograph of a person at a mixing desk, we're looking at the from behind so just see the back of their head, and the two screens stacked up in front of them.

Call to Fix Streaming Campaign Receives Extensive Press Coverage

Over 75 artists including The Rolling Stones, Yoko Ono, Pet Shop Boys, Barry Gibb, Emeli Sandé, Sir Tom Jones, and the estates of John Lennon and Joe Strummer have added their voices to the Fix Streaming call.

Published: 16 June 2021

Black and white photograph of someone's home recording studio set up, two computers and a keyboard are on a desk and the walls are sound proofed.

Government Responds to Parliamentary Questions on the Fix Streaming Campaign

Minister Caroline Dinenage MP has responded to parliamentary questions on Fix Streaming, saying the Government “recognises that it is important that artists are fairly remunerated for their work.”

Published: 16 June 2021

Photograph of a sunny festival camping scene, blankers, chairs and tents are strewn around.

Government Needs to Act Urgently to Protect Musicians After Latest Lockdown Delay Announcement

The MU is urging the Government to review some of its restrictions following today’s announcement of a four-week delay to the lifting of lockdown restrictions in England.

Published: 14 June 2021

Photograph of a trumpet resting on the sill of a closed window, with light shining through.

Shielding Musicians Encouraged to Complete Brief Survey to Help Us Support You

The MU and the Ivor’s Academy in collaboration with ConnectsMusic.com and with the support of HMUK are surveying musicians and creators to find out about those who are still, and will need to keep, shielding once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted – and ways to support them.

Published: 14 June 2021

Photograph of a choir, blurred in the background, with a keyboard and microphone in sharp focus.

Amateur Choirs – Further Developments and Campaigning From the MU

Amateur choirs may be able to rehearse, perform and record under specific circumstances - as we continue to campaign to overturn the Government’s decision on continuing to limit their activities.

Published: 10 June 2021

Amateur Choirs: “It’s In Our Bones to Use Our Voices”

As the Government continues to restrict the meeting and rehearsing of amateur choirs in England, jazz vocalist, musician and teacher Andi Hopgood discusses why amateur choirs are so essential – from their benefits to wellbeing to the employment they provide.

Published: 10 June 2021

Photograph of a touring crate waiting to be transported on a rainy European street.

MU and ISM Bitterly Disappointed That Lord Frost has 'Dodged' Select Committee Scrutiny

Together with the ISM, we have expressed extreme disappointment that the Brexit Secretary Lord Frost has, at the eleventh hour, cancelled his appearance before the Parliament’s Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Select Committee on 10 June.

Published: 10 June 2021

Black and white photograph of a man in a fringed leather jacket walking out on to a stage holding a guitar

Over 75 Artists Including The Rolling Stones Join The Call to Fix Streaming

The Rolling Stones, Pet Shop Boys, Emeli Sandé, Barry Gibb, Van Morrison, Sir Tom Jones and the Estates of John Lennon and Joe Strummer have written to the Prime Minister “on behalf of today’s generation of artists, musicians and songwriters here in the UK”.

Published: 07 June 2021

Abstract style photo of a blurred chour, who appear to be dressed in black tie.

No Progress On Amateur Choir Restrictions in England

There has been no movement from the Government on their restrictions for amateur choirs in England, despite growing pressure from the MU and others. We’re calling on members to sign the petition to have the matter debated in parliament.

Published: 02 June 2021

Photograph of a beautiful, swirling red and pattern skirt - part of a dress being worn at a traditional Roma dance.

GRT History Month: In the Blood

To mark Gypsy Roma Traveller (GRT) History Month, MU member Jani Lang takes us through the history of GRT music, and the key role that nurturing and showcasing this heritage plays in the flourishing of GRT communities.

Published: 01 June 2021

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MU Moves to Support Girls I Rate as Part of UK Music 10-Point Plan

ABRSM Announces Enriched Woodwind Syllabus Which Aims to Inspire Curiosity of Learners

Piping Centre to Give Free Talk on Post-Brexit Working for Musicians

TUC General Secretary Highlights “Outrageous” HE Funding Cuts in MU Conference Speech

Jo Stevens MP Reaffirms Labour’s Commitment to Music at MU Delegate Conference Address

Government Response to Consultation on Sexual Harassment Welcomed

MU Signs TUC Letter Calling For Urgent Reset in The Government’s Approach to LGBT+ Rights

Second Day of MU Delegate Conference

MU Outrage as Planned Cuts to Government Funding for Higher Education Arts and Music Confirmed

First Day of MU Delegate Conference

Impact of Re-opening in England on Clinically Extremely Vulnerable Members

MU Signs TUC’s Letter of Solidarity With The Professional Footballers' Association

The MU's Joint Open Letter to Department of Transport to Protect Touring in the EU

MU Continues to Support Members Injured on The Road Despite Government Changes

All Restrictions in England Due to End on 19 July 2021

Brexit Lobbying Update: A Session Characterised by Tension

Why I Joined: Lizzy Hardingham

Jazz Musicians in England Encouraged to Complete APPJAG Questionnaire

The Creative Industry is an Ecosystem That Must be Set Up For All

Lobbying Update – MPs Support MU’s Calls For The Government to Allow Music Events

Positive News on US Visas

Open Invite to Young Trade Union Members in Scotland to Attend Online STUC Youth Conference

The TUC Publish Report on Long Covid

New Brexit Campaign #LetTheMusicMove Launches

Open Letter in Opposition to the Government’s Proposed HE Cuts Published

New Bill Calls For a Better Deal For Musicians and Songwriters From Streaming

The Ivors Academy CEO Graham Davies on The Value of The Song

WIPO Report Backs Up Fix Streaming Campaign’s Key Asks

Is It Live or Dead: The State of The Live Music Industry in The UK

A Fair Deal from Streaming: Equitable Remuneration for Performers

Call to Fix Streaming Campaign Receives Extensive Press Coverage

Government Responds to Parliamentary Questions on the Fix Streaming Campaign

Government Needs to Act Urgently to Protect Musicians After Latest Lockdown Delay Announcement

Shielding Musicians Encouraged to Complete Brief Survey to Help Us Support You

Amateur Choirs – Further Developments and Campaigning From the MU

Amateur Choirs: “It’s In Our Bones to Use Our Voices”

MU and ISM Bitterly Disappointed That Lord Frost has 'Dodged' Select Committee Scrutiny

Over 75 Artists Including The Rolling Stones Join The Call to Fix Streaming

No Progress On Amateur Choir Restrictions in England

GRT History Month: In the Blood