News & Stories for Musicians

Photograph of MU Executive Committee Member Diljeet Bhachu, speaking into a microphone.

Looking Back, Moving Forward: MU Member Diljeet Bhachu’s Opening Speech to the STUC Black Workers’ Conference

This year’s STUC Black Workers’ Conference was chaired by MU Executive Committee member Diljeet Bhachu, who reflected on how challenging the previous 18-months have been for Black workers across Scotland, and the importance of solidarity across the Trade Union movement.

Published: 04 October 2021

MU Member Chairs the STUC Black Workers’ Conference

MU Executive Committee member Diljeet Bhachu is now the first MU member to chair an STUC Black Workers Conference, which ran this weekend. The conference also saw two motions – “An Inclusive Curriculum,” and “Afghan Musicians,” – submitted and moved by MU delegates.

Published: 04 October 2021

Photograph of a white rugby ball on a grassy pitch, blurred figures in yellow stand in the distance.

Scottish Rugby Will Pay Musicians Following Constructive Conversation

The MU is delighted that Scottish Rugby will now be paying musicians for its Scotland’s Playlist initiative following constructive conversations with the union.

Published: 01 October 2021

Photograph of a pair of brightly painted miniature maracas against a blue and pink background.

Final Announcements on Discounts and Sessions as Education Conference Approaches

With just over two weeks to go until our MU Education Conference commences, there’s still time to book your place – and booking for free one-to-one consultations and coaching sessions is now open to all delegates.

Published: 01 October 2021

Close up photograph of a tenor trombone.

A Generous Donation from Jazz Legend and MU Member

Trombonist Malcolm Griffiths – who sadly passed away in January 2021 – left a generous donation of instruments from his own collection, which have now been passed on to the Kent Music instrument library to inspire a future generation of musicians.

Published: 01 October 2021

Photo close up of a microphone, a person in the background is holding a pair of earphones like they're about to put them on.

Revisit our Playlist Archives for Black History Month

As well as the fresh content that we’ll be publishing over the course of Black History Month (which runs from 1-31 October), we encourage members to browse back through the previous playlists we’ve published celebrating Black British musicians.

Published: 01 October 2021

Rock Against Racism, Love Music Hate Racism, and the Fight Against Racism Today

Zak Cochrane from LMHR guides us through the two music-driven antiracist movements that emerged in the 70s in Britain - Rock Against Racism and Love Music Hate Racism.

Published: 01 October 2021

Photograph of a transit van driving down an empty road, beautiful mountain scenery is in the misty background.

MU Welcomes UK Government Announcement That “Splitter Vans” Can Be Used For European Tours

The MU is delighted by the Government announcement that “splitter vans” can be used by British musicians touring Europe. The MU has been lobbying to ensure musicians can continue to tour Europe post-Brexit using this type of vehicle.

Published: 30 September 2021

Photograph of a white car from the side, zoomed in on the wing mirror.

Driving in the EU: Number Plate Legislation Change

It has come to our attention that from Tuesday 28 September, cars displaying a GB sticker or number plate sign will need to either cover it up or remove it.

Published: 24 September 2021

Photograph of an airplane flying against a darkening sky, beams of light between the clouds.

UK Government Reinstates Quarantine Exemption in England for Performing Artists

As of Wednesday 22 September 2021, performing artists returning to England from work abroad can benefit from a quarantine exemption.

Published: 24 September 2021

Photograph of a person with red hair, wearing a pink mask and pink earphones in front of a pink background.

US Lifts Covid-19 Travel Ban

The MU has recently learnt via their friends at Tamizdat that the White House will be easing Covid-19 travel restrictions to the US.

Published: 24 September 2021

Silhouette of a person holding up their hands in a heart shape, against a stadium audience at a live music event.

New Recovery Fund Opens in Northern Ireland to Support Individuals Working in the Arts and Creative Sectors

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI) and the Department for Communities (DfC), have today (Wednesday 15 September) opened a new recovery funding programme, co-designed to support individuals in the Arts and Creative sectors retain valuable skills.

Published: 23 September 2021

Two purple fold up chairs standing on two seperate purple yoga mats in bright, sunny lighting.

Feldenkrais Method for Musicians – Why do it?

You are your primary Instrument, whether that’s a Strad or a factory violin is up to how you use what you have! Find out how the Feldenkrais Method could help.

Published: 23 September 2021

Photograph of a microphone against the background of yellow stage lights.

Lobbying Update: Government Must Invest in Musicians This Autumn

Help us make the case to the Government to use the money that is left in the Cultural Recovery Fund to provide bridging loans and other investment for musicians, by answering three short questions.

Published: 23 September 2021

Photograph of a number of instruments left backstage, a well aged piano, an upright bass lying on its side, a red synth on a stand and a music stand, as well as fairy lights and wires and visible.

The MU and The Ivors Academy Welcome Important Research on Creators' Earnings Published by The IPO

The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) have published research on “Creators’ Earnings in the Digital Age”, in a timely move, given current industry debates and our campaign to defend media composers' royalties.

Published: 23 September 2021

Photograph of a bass musician standing on a busy looking stage with orange and purple light shining over them

Government’s Response to DCMS Select Committee’s Streaming Report is Welcome

The MU, The Ivors Academy and Tom Gray, Founder of the #BrokenRecord Campaign welcome the Government’s response to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee Streaming Report, but call for firm action now to put the value of music back in the hands of music makers.

Published: 22 September 2021

Photograph of a close up of a young flute player, practicing in a classroom setting. Behind them we can see other performers and a teacher figure.

MU Urges New Education Secretary and Schools Minister to Work Together to Protect Music Education

Following the sacking of Education Secretary Gavin Williamson and Schools Minister Nick Gibb – and their replacement by Nadhim Zahawi and Robin Walker respectively – the MU urges the new ministers to work together to address systemic problems affecting music education in England.

Published: 17 September 2021

Stone pillar with a plac reading DEPARTMENT FOR CULTURE, MEDIA AND SPORT

MU Writes to New DCMS Secretary of State Highlighting Impacts of Brexit and Covid-19

The Musicians’ Union has written to the new Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Nadine Dorries MP, highlighting ongoing challenges MU members are facing.

Published: 16 September 2021

Close up photograph of a cello's bridge and strings

MU Deputy General Secretary Attends Meeting with Scotland’s First Minister on Measures Against Covid-19

MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl represented the Union at a meeting with Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon today.

Published: 15 September 2021

Trades Union Congress House in black and white

MU Motions on Fixing Streaming, Brexit Touring Issues, and Equalities Passed at TUC Conference 2021

Delegates from across the trade union movement support the MU’s calls for fairer streaming, easier EU touring, and women’s rights at TUC’s 2021 Conference.

Published: 14 September 2021

Photograph of a socially distanced audience watching a live performance from the back. We see them from behind, seated on distanced chairs with a red light.

Vaccination Certification Will Become Mandatory for Various Events in Scotland

The Scottish Parliament has approved the use of Coronavirus vaccination certificates to enter some events and higher risk venues, with the scheme coming into effect on 1 October.

Published: 10 September 2021

Photograph of a masked woman sitting outdoors, writing into a notebook and wearing headphones.

Together With The Ivors Academy We’re Calling For Support For Shielding Musicians and Music Creators

Joint research by the MU and The Ivors Academy has revealed that 70% of musicians, songwriters and composers who are still shielding are facing financial hardship because of their continued need to shield.

Published: 10 September 2021

Young musician working in a studio, he is sitting at a mixing desk, behind him a drum kit is visible

Discount for MU Members at SensoriaPro 2021

SensoriaPro Industry Day will take place in person at the Showroom Cinema, Sheffield on Friday 8 October 2021 and there is an exclusive 23% discount for MU members.

Published: 08 September 2021

A South Asian person in her wheelchair takes notes by hand during a meeting.

Harbourside Management Research Highlights How Workers Fear to Disclose Disability

New research from Harbourside Management indicates music industry workers are putting their health at risk as a result of fears to disclose disability.

Published: 07 September 2021

Photograph of a paperchain of people set out on a wooden table, with a bright yellow light shining on them. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Women and Equalities Select Committee Menopause Inquiry

The Women and Equalities Select Committee have launched an inquiry into the extent and impact of menopause discrimination in the workplace.

Published: 07 September 2021

Photograph of a musician playing guitar to a laughing baby in a small baby chair.

Freelance Parents and Carers Encouraged to Take PiPA’s Survey

Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) are looking to identity the specific needs and challenges faced by freelance parents and carers in the performing arts industry.

Published: 07 September 2021

Photograph of Edinburgh Old Town, with the streets looking busy

Scotland's Music on Tour: Scottish Government Launch Touring Fund for Live Music

Musicians, bands, artists and venues will be able to apply to a £750,000 Scottish Government fund to bring new and additional concerts to venues and festivals in Scotland next year.

Published: 07 September 2021

Photograph of a woman backstage, she has a concerned expression and is looking into her mob

#ThisIsNotWorking: Call From Musicians and Music Industry Workforce For Abuse to End

New reports reveal sexual harassment and abuse remain rife in the music industry despite the #MeToo movement. We’re calling on the Government and music industry organisations to protect musicians and other workers from victimisation and harassment.

Published: 03 September 2021

Photograph of a gig audience with raised hands, and bright pink lighting shining over the crowd.

MU Welcomes Cardiff Council’s Support for Gigs in Cardiff Castle

Four nights of live music at Cardiff Castle will support musicians and grassroots music venues.

Published: 27 August 2021

Photograph of a group of young people waiting in a queue, all of them are wearing facemarks and the person at the front is looking at their mobile phone.

Our Advice on Vaccination and Testing Requirements

Whilst the UK Government have confirmed that they don’t plan to introduce regulations around the vaccination of employees and freelancers, a venue may ask you to adhere to certain risk mitigation measures.

Published: 26 August 2021

Photograph of a very green looking forest clearing with moss and plants.

Exploring Green Pension Investments as the Most Powerful Thing You Can Do to Protect The Planet

The MU continues to investigate ways in which we can reduce our impact on the climate crisis and contribute to sustainability, including divesting from fossil fuels.

Published: 26 August 2021

Pregnant Jocelyin Freeman sitting, one hand on the piano, one on her baby bump..

How Mothers are Fighting Workplace Discrimination in Music

Female musicians face discrimination in the workplace – and it only increases if they get pregnant. Here, we focus on some of the inspiring musicians lobbying for change.

Published: 26 August 2021

Photograph of a young man singing into a microphone, while another person mans the recording station, a drum kit is also visible in the background

Graduates Share Their Concerns About The Devastating Impact of Government Funding Cuts to HE Arts and Music Subjects

This summer, the MU asked musicians and other arts workers what the 50% cut to Government funding for Higher Education arts and music subjects means to them.

Published: 25 August 2021

Headie One performs at the Brixton Academy in November 2019.

The Rise of UK Hip-Hop

From the margins to the mainstream, UK hip-hop has exploded in recent years and risen to evermore creative and commercial heights.

Published: 25 August 2021

MU Signs Open Letter Demanding Return to Live Music Post-Pandemic is Safe and Inclusive For Everyone

The MU has signed UN Women UK’s open letter, calling for 2021 to be the year the music and events industries rise up to the call of the #MeToo movement – and commits to change.

Published: 24 August 2021

Photograph of a field of daffodils in Stratford, London.

Help Save Stratford Circus a Dedicated London Arts Space

Nationally recognised arts centre Stratford Circus was closed down during the pandemic lockdown, and Newham Council are now tendering for a new management to run it with no remit or funding for professional arts.

Published: 24 August 2021

The Importance of the MU Political Fund

Assistant General Secretary, Phil Kear, explains how the MU political fund provides invaluable help for members.

Published: 24 August 2021

Member only Read more about The Importance of the MU Political Fund

Musician Speaks Out on Discrimination Faced During Pregnancy

MU member and harpist Cecilia De Maria took to Facebook and Instagram, to spread an important message about why so many women in the music industry are scared of their work being affected by people finding out that they are pregnant.

Published: 24 August 2021

Photograph of a band playing, in what appears to be underground archways, with red lights shining.

DIY Guide to Mentoring in Music Released

Mentoring in Music is a comprehensive DIY guide to mentoring that gives you the tools you need to create opportunities to get mentoring or be a mentor.

Published: 20 August 2021

Photograph of the inside of a harpsichord instrument.

Government Opens Consultation on Extending Elephant Ivory Ban to Non-Elephant Ivory

Whilst deploring the existing elephant ivory poaching trade, the MU has stated that the ban should not be extended to instruments containing non-elephant ivory.

Published: 20 August 2021

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Looking Back, Moving Forward: MU Member Diljeet Bhachu’s Opening Speech to the STUC Black Workers’ Conference

MU Member Chairs the STUC Black Workers’ Conference

Scottish Rugby Will Pay Musicians Following Constructive Conversation

Final Announcements on Discounts and Sessions as Education Conference Approaches

A Generous Donation from Jazz Legend and MU Member

Revisit our Playlist Archives for Black History Month

Rock Against Racism, Love Music Hate Racism, and the Fight Against Racism Today

MU Welcomes UK Government Announcement That “Splitter Vans” Can Be Used For European Tours

Driving in the EU: Number Plate Legislation Change

UK Government Reinstates Quarantine Exemption in England for Performing Artists

US Lifts Covid-19 Travel Ban

New Recovery Fund Opens in Northern Ireland to Support Individuals Working in the Arts and Creative Sectors

Feldenkrais Method for Musicians – Why do it?

Lobbying Update: Government Must Invest in Musicians This Autumn

The MU and The Ivors Academy Welcome Important Research on Creators' Earnings Published by The IPO

Government’s Response to DCMS Select Committee’s Streaming Report is Welcome

MU Urges New Education Secretary and Schools Minister to Work Together to Protect Music Education

MU Writes to New DCMS Secretary of State Highlighting Impacts of Brexit and Covid-19

MU Deputy General Secretary Attends Meeting with Scotland’s First Minister on Measures Against Covid-19

MU Motions on Fixing Streaming, Brexit Touring Issues, and Equalities Passed at TUC Conference 2021

Vaccination Certification Will Become Mandatory for Various Events in Scotland

Together With The Ivors Academy We’re Calling For Support For Shielding Musicians and Music Creators

Discount for MU Members at SensoriaPro 2021

Harbourside Management Research Highlights How Workers Fear to Disclose Disability

Women and Equalities Select Committee Menopause Inquiry

Freelance Parents and Carers Encouraged to Take PiPA’s Survey

Scotland's Music on Tour: Scottish Government Launch Touring Fund for Live Music

#ThisIsNotWorking: Call From Musicians and Music Industry Workforce For Abuse to End

MU Welcomes Cardiff Council’s Support for Gigs in Cardiff Castle

Our Advice on Vaccination and Testing Requirements

Exploring Green Pension Investments as the Most Powerful Thing You Can Do to Protect The Planet

How Mothers are Fighting Workplace Discrimination in Music

Graduates Share Their Concerns About The Devastating Impact of Government Funding Cuts to HE Arts and Music Subjects

The Rise of UK Hip-Hop

MU Signs Open Letter Demanding Return to Live Music Post-Pandemic is Safe and Inclusive For Everyone

Help Save Stratford Circus a Dedicated London Arts Space

The Importance of the MU Political Fund

Musician Speaks Out on Discrimination Faced During Pregnancy

DIY Guide to Mentoring in Music Released

Government Opens Consultation on Extending Elephant Ivory Ban to Non-Elephant Ivory