News & Stories for Musicians

ENO leafleting action outside the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday 22 July by the MU and Equity with the ENO orchestra and chorus.

MU Responds to Update on Future of the English National Opera

Arts Council England have announced a grant of £24 million for the English National Opera for April 2024 to March 2026, and an additional three years for it to establish a new base outside the capital. 

Published: 27 July 2023

MU Executive Committe Vice Chair Andi Hopgood, stands and speaks from the mic while holding a small child.

Wrapping Up MU Delegate Conference 2023: Motions, Updates and Celebrations

MU Delegate Conference wraps up with motions on the Welsh language, future pandemic planning for musicians and the closure of rail ticket offices, with union members using the second day of MU Delegate Conference to vote on a very clear set of policy priorities.

Published: 26 July 2023

A train stands blurred in a train station with bright light and no visible passengers on the platform

MU Conference Backs Emergency Motion to Save UK Rail Ticket Offices

With Transport Focus’ public consultation on ticket office closures currently ongoing, the MU have passed an emergency motion at the 2023 Delegate Conference to save UK rail ticket offices, showing support and solidarity with the RMT.

Published: 26 July 2023

Delegate conference attendees sit at tables in a bright room.

Solidarity, Music Education and Championing Music on the Agenda on First Day of MU Delegate Conference 2023

A packed first day of MU Delegate Conference including inspiring speeches and important policy decisions on the big issues facing musicians today.

Published: 25 July 2023

Across a long room full of delegates sat at tables, we see Naomi presenting to the group, speaking into a microphone

Read the MU General Secretary Speech From 2023’s Delegate Conference

In her opening speech at this year’s MU Delegate Conference, General Secretary Naomi Pohl describes how the Union is making progress in negotiations, campaigning and lobbying – and how we are improving what we do for members all the time. Read her full speech below.

Published: 25 July 2023

A fund the arts sign from the Musicians' Union is held aloft in a crowd

MU Commends Trade Union Solidarity Rallies Held in Support of SAG AFTRA Strikes

Equity are organising a rally on Friday 21 July in solidarity with strikes being held by their United States sister union SAG-AFTRA. The MU welcomes this trade union show of solidarity with a round-up of social media action.

Published: 19 July 2023

Colourful map of Lambeth showing Archbishop's park and the surrounding areas

MU Raises Objections to Destruction of Community Arts Venue Iklectik

The MU has written to the Mayor of London, calling on him to refuse the planning application for the development of office buildings in Lambeth that would see the recording and rehearsal spaces in community art venue Iklectik, destroyed.

Published: 19 July 2023

Long exposure of a bus travelling in Glasgow city center at night time.

MU Concerned by First Glasgow Plans to Cancel Night Bus Service

Although plans to cancel the service have currently been delayed until August, the MU is asking any members affected to contact the Scotland Regional Office to discuss their concerns, with the potential to be interviewed about their experiences.

Published: 19 July 2023

Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Vote Yes to Potential Industrial Action

The members of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House have voted overwhelmingly in favour of potential strike action in a ballot that closed 17 July.

Published: 18 July 2023

A number of touring crates stand on tarmac

Decision on US Visa Proposed Increase in Petition Fees Delayed

Following a January 2023 proposal to adjust fees charged by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it has now been reported that a final rulemaking will not occur until March 2024, implying that the original proposal will not go ahead in its proposed form.

Published: 18 July 2023

ABO/MU Agreement Ballot Accepted by MU Members

Following a recent ballot of MU Orchestra Section members in relation to the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) / MU agreement, the majority of members have voted to accept the changes.

Published: 17 July 2023

Pair of hands on a computer keyboard and a piano keyboard.

POWER UP Announces Participant List for Third Year of Programme

The POWER UP participant programme - co-founded by the PRS Foundation and Ben Wynter to elevate pioneering Black talent, whilst addressing anti-Black racism and racial disparities in the music sector - has announced the successful participants for its third year running.

Published: 17 July 2023

Brixton Hill Studios Saved from Closure Thanks to Overwhelming Campaign Response

The cultural institution Brixton Hill Studios has confirmed that they have been granted a lease renewal, following campaigning efforts and support from organisations across the industry including the Musicians’ Union.

Published: 17 July 2023

Three rocks balanced on top of each other on the beach, concept of balance and harmony.

PiPA Launch Survey on Work-Life Balance For Those Working in the Arts

The Balancing Act Survey is aimed at all workers in music, opera, dance and theatre. It is open to all genders, parents and carers, as well as those who do not currently have caring responsibilities.

Published: 14 July 2023

The outside roof detail of the London Coliseum theatre in Covent Garden, the previous home of ENO.

Sign The Petition to Protect Jobs at English National Opera

Call on Ministers to provide more funding to support English National Opera and protect jobs in the orchestra, chorus and stage crews.

Published: 14 July 2023

Nigel Braithwaite on stage, behind a podium, making his speech to conference holding a walking aid. Behind him is the TUC blue presentation screen with a text display of his speech.

MU Delegate Highlights From TUC’s Disabled Workers Conference 2023

Our Delegates Nigel Braithwaite and Fiona Branson spoke on the importance of protecting accessible ticket offices at UK railway stations, as well as defending the rights of disabled freelance musicians.

Published: 12 July 2023

MU Fights for English National Opera's Future

We are continuing to make the case for the English National Opera (ENO), writing to key stakeholders and emphasising the impact that hastily made plans and underfunding will have on the wider classical music industry.

Published: 10 July 2023

The Houses of Parliament on a bright Summer evening, lit up with some bright orange lights.

Recipients of Parliamentary Jazz Awards Announced for 2023

The Parliamentary Jazz Awards which were announced on Tuesday 4 July celebrate and recognise the vibrancy, diversity, talent and breadth of the jazz scene throughout the United Kingdom.

Published: 10 July 2023

Customers bring served at the ticket office inside Marylebone railway station in London.

Take Action Against Potential Closure of Nearly 1,000 UK Rail Ticket Offices

The MU is supporting RMT in its opposition to plans by Government and train companies to close ticket offices across the rail network. Have your say by taking part in a public consultation and signing the official petitions.

Published: 07 July 2023

Large cup of coffee on a table in a brightly lit coffee shop

New Series of MU 1-2-1 Advice Sessions Released Across Scotland

We’ll be running free 30-minute advice sessions in Edinburgh, Dundee, Dumfries, Glasgow and Galashiels over the summer, with more dates to be announced for Skye, Inverness and Aberdeen in the Autumn.

Published: 04 July 2023

Utako Toyama smiling in front of a blue presentation screen saying TUC LGBT+ Conference 2023.

MU Motion on Trans and Non-Binary Inclusion Passed at TUC LGBT+ Conference

MU Delegate Utako Toyama spoke about the importance of mental health in relation to trans and non-binary inclusion at work - a motion supported by the NUJ and passed unanimously.

Published: 03 July 2023

Mike Nottage stands behind a table set up for PAT testing with a medium sized amp on display

Testing Times: Ensuring Your Equipment is Safe and You Are Protected

MU member and portable appliance tester, Mike Nottage, writes up his answers to your most frequently asked questions, and shares advice from the Union’s many PAT events he’s run in the past.

Published: 03 July 2023

Closeup of notepad for agenda kept on table in empty corporate conference room.

The FEU Calls For an Independent Appointment Procedure for BBC Board

The Federation of Entertainment Unions (FEU), of which the Musicians’ Union is a member, has released a statement calling for a new, independent body which represents licence fee payers.

Published: 30 June 2023

Close up of The Epstein Theatre sign in large gold lettering outside the venue in daytime.

Sign the Petition to Help Save Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre

The Epstein Theatre closed Friday 30 June after Liverpool City Council announced it would be ending financial support. Members are encouraged to sign a petition to help save the historic venue.

Published: 30 June 2023

BBC Portland Place in the day time, with some people walking in and out of the building

BBC Write to MU General Secretary Confirming Progress on Performing Group Sustainable Future

The BBC have written to the MU with updates on how they plan to provide a sustainable future for their performing groups, and we remain in meaningful discussion with them following months of uncertainty for our members.

Published: 27 June 2023

A skyline view of Nottingham brick buildings in Nottingham's city centre

BBC Concert Orchestra Partners with Universities of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent

New partnership highlights the creative community input that orchestras can have across regions, improving the life and wellbeing of people in the city and supporting the local music education sector.

Published: 27 June 2023

New MU Event Series on Maximising Your Income as a Recording Musician

From copyright and contracts to royalties and rights, a new MU event tells you all you need to know about maximising your income as a recording musician.

Published: 26 June 2023

Band in recording studio booth, with technician in foreground by mixing desk.

Help Save Brixton Hill Studios From Closure by Writing to MP

MU members are encouraged to write to Brixton Hill MP Bell Ribeiro-Addy with their concerns using a template letter, as it faces imminent closure due to extortionate rent increases and lack of negotiation.

Published: 22 June 2023

Empty outdoor stage with sound equipment set up.

MU Responds to Cancellation of Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival

A joint statement from the MU, Bectu and Equity on the cancellation and what this means for those who were meant to be working and performing at this year’s festival.

Published: 22 June 2023

A close up of a Black musician holding a saxophone.

MU Marks Windrush Day 2023

To commemorate Windrush Day - which this year marks 75 years since the arrival of the Windrush in Britain - we revisit MU member Millicent Stephenson’s story, along with additional information and resources.

Published: 22 June 2023

Liverpool Hood Street bus terminal at night, with long exposure of traffic trails/light of public transport.

MU Supports Liverpool’s ‘Bring Back Night Buses’ Campaign and Survey

The MU is asking members local to Liverpool to complete a short survey which will help organisers better understand the needs of public transport users, with an aim of providing convenient, safe and affordable links to local music venues.

Published: 21 June 2023

Pastel red sunrise over the Humber Bridge in Hull

MU Sponsors Love Music Hate Racism All-Dayer in Hull

The Finale of Love Music Hate Racism’s Crisis Music Tour will be taking place at the Adelphi Club in Hull on Sunday 2 July with a free all-dayer. The MU will be present and are sponsoring the event.

Published: 20 June 2023

A small church on a sunny day in Tolpuddle, Dorset

MU Returns to Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival

The Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival will run 14-16 July in Dorset, seeing thousands of trade unionists gather from around the UK to commemorate the bravery of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. MU Regional Organiser Andy Warnock will be in attendance for the weekend.

Published: 20 June 2023

Black background with golden glitter and confetti to represent a celebration.

The MU’s 130th Anniversary

We look back on the Union’s rich history and the battles won and lost over the decades.

Published: 20 June 2023

Microphone against a dark background with rainbow light

Connected Sounds Podcast Focuses on Queer Conversation in Music

As part of Pride month we’d like to highlight resources for the LGBT+ community and allies in the music industry, including the second season of Come Play With Me’s podcast which focuses on queer conversations in music.

Published: 19 June 2023

Performer Susanne Xin in front of an audience, next to a microphone and table.

MU Celebrates Refugee Week 2023

Use your power to support musicians seeking sanctuary this Refugee Week with our list of helpful resources.

Published: 19 June 2023

Young Black female musician playing drums in a recording studio.

MU Responds to Government Plans to Grow Economy and Boost Creative Industries

The plans aim to grow the economy and boost UK creative industries by £50 billion.

Published: 15 June 2023

Music stand holding open music books with chairs and an acoustic guitar in the background.

Arts Council England Confirms New Music Hub Geographies

Arts Council England (ACE) has confirmed that from September 2024 there will be 43 Music Hubs in England, down from the current 116. Here MU National Organiser for Education and Health & Wellbeing Chris Walters looks at the implications for members.

Published: 13 June 2023

Welly boots covered in mud lie in the sunshine on very fresh green grass

Musician Iona Fyfe Advises Caution For Those Performing at This Year’s Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival

Scottish musician, activist and MU Member Iona Fyfe advises performers to speak to the MU before engaging with the festival.

Published: 08 June 2023

William Shakespeare statue in Leicester Square, London.

MU To Attend Global Day of Solidarity Protest in Support of The Writers Guild of America Strike

The MU will join other members of the Federation of Entertainment Unions to show solidarity in London’s Leicester Square on Wednesday 14 June.

Published: 07 June 2023

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MU Responds to Update on Future of the English National Opera

Wrapping Up MU Delegate Conference 2023: Motions, Updates and Celebrations

MU Conference Backs Emergency Motion to Save UK Rail Ticket Offices

Solidarity, Music Education and Championing Music on the Agenda on First Day of MU Delegate Conference 2023

Read the MU General Secretary Speech From 2023’s Delegate Conference

MU Commends Trade Union Solidarity Rallies Held in Support of SAG AFTRA Strikes

MU Raises Objections to Destruction of Community Arts Venue Iklectik

MU Concerned by First Glasgow Plans to Cancel Night Bus Service

Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Vote Yes to Potential Industrial Action

Decision on US Visa Proposed Increase in Petition Fees Delayed

ABO/MU Agreement Ballot Accepted by MU Members

POWER UP Announces Participant List for Third Year of Programme

Brixton Hill Studios Saved from Closure Thanks to Overwhelming Campaign Response

PiPA Launch Survey on Work-Life Balance For Those Working in the Arts

Sign The Petition to Protect Jobs at English National Opera

MU Delegate Highlights From TUC’s Disabled Workers Conference 2023

MU Fights for English National Opera's Future

Recipients of Parliamentary Jazz Awards Announced for 2023

Take Action Against Potential Closure of Nearly 1,000 UK Rail Ticket Offices

New Series of MU 1-2-1 Advice Sessions Released Across Scotland

MU Motion on Trans and Non-Binary Inclusion Passed at TUC LGBT+ Conference

Testing Times: Ensuring Your Equipment is Safe and You Are Protected

The FEU Calls For an Independent Appointment Procedure for BBC Board

Sign the Petition to Help Save Liverpool’s Epstein Theatre

BBC Write to MU General Secretary Confirming Progress on Performing Group Sustainable Future

BBC Concert Orchestra Partners with Universities of Nottingham and Nottingham Trent

New MU Event Series on Maximising Your Income as a Recording Musician

Help Save Brixton Hill Studios From Closure by Writing to MP

MU Responds to Cancellation of Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival

MU Marks Windrush Day 2023

MU Supports Liverpool’s ‘Bring Back Night Buses’ Campaign and Survey

MU Sponsors Love Music Hate Racism All-Dayer in Hull

MU Returns to Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival

The MU’s 130th Anniversary

Connected Sounds Podcast Focuses on Queer Conversation in Music

MU Celebrates Refugee Week 2023

MU Responds to Government Plans to Grow Economy and Boost Creative Industries

Arts Council England Confirms New Music Hub Geographies

Musician Iona Fyfe Advises Caution For Those Performing at This Year’s Doune the Rabbit Hole Festival

MU To Attend Global Day of Solidarity Protest in Support of The Writers Guild of America Strike