News & Stories for Musicians

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

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

A music stand is empty against a brightly lit background

Major UK Broadcasters Back Calls for an ISA to Tackle Bullying and Harassment

ITV, Sky, BBC, Channel 4, and Channel 5 become the first UK broadcasters to back the next stage of Creative UK and UK Time’s Up proposal for an Independent Standards Authority to strengthen efforts to tackle bullying and harassment.

Published: 22 June 2022

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Year 2 POWER UP Participants Announced

As the participants for the second year are announced, POWER UP also celebrates the victories and impact of the programme from Year 1.

Published: 22 June 2022

7 MU members of staff standing in the street for the rally, all holding large white MU flags.

MU Joins Trade Union Members From Across the UK to Demand Better

Tens of thousands of trade union members marched together with one clear message for the Government: we deserve and we demand better.

Published: 21 June 2022

Windscreen drivers view of a touring van, an open road and greenery are ahead.

Navigating Tours in Ireland and Europe post Brexit and Covid: A Case Study

In this insightful case study, MU member Sarah McQuaid outlines the extensive process she has gone through prior to touring in Ireland and Europe.

Published: 20 June 2022

Woman out of focus holding outstretched hand to camera, palm facing, to represent 'no' or 'stop'. ,

MU to Gather Members’ Experiences of Misogyny and Sexism in Music Industry

All eligible members will be asked to complete a short survey to help make the music industry a safer, more equitable place for women.

Published: 17 June 2022

Close up of clarinet over a keyboard with sheet music.

MU and Black Lives in Music Launch 3-Year Partnership

The 3-year partnership will see BLiM and The MU work together to challenge racism, promote inclusive practices and accelerate change regarding diversity in the music industry.

Published: 16 June 2022

A young person is sat in a bright library setting wearing red headphones and looking intently at a computer screen.

Universities Cut Arts Courses

The MU is saddened to see large-scale cuts to arts courses at two universities following ongoing Government funding cuts and anti-arts rhetoric.

Published: 14 June 2022

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Channel 4 Ain’t Broke Initiative Launches with Call for Action

Campaigning organisation We Own It have launched a campaign to protect Channel 4 from privatisation, following Nadine Dorries’ recent announcement of plans to privatise the channel.

Published: 14 June 2022

Silhouette of a woman standing on a stage leaning on a microphone

Carol Jack Releases Tool-Kit For Female Singers Over 40

The online tool-kit features advice from over 16 expert speakers, including the MU’s General Secretary Naomi Pohl, giving female singers over 40 the tools and strategies needed to “take back the mic.”

Published: 14 June 2022

Close up of baritone saxophone, back ground is out of focus.

A Tribute to Frank White, 29 January 1938 – 2 April 2022

James Thompson pays tribute to Frank White, one of the finest baritone saxophone players in the UK and member of the MU for over sixty years.

Published: 10 June 2022

Blacked out image with a single spot light in center where a women's silhouette is singing into a microphone.

MU Disappointed in New Equality Stats Regarding Female Festival Headliners

New BBC research has found that music festival lineups are still not balanced in terms of gender equality, with only 13% of UK headliners being female.

Published: 08 June 2022

7 wooden shaped non gender figures on grey surface, with 3 dots in a speech bubble in white, one of the figures has a speech bubble in green showing they are talking.

Call for Statements in Support of Orchestral Royalties in Australia

PPL are supporting the MEAA in trying to lobby for change in Australia so that orchestras can receive their PPL equivalent PPCA.

Published: 08 June 2022

Ivory Ban Comes Into Force

The UK Ivory Act enforces a near total ban on elephant ivory sales from 6 June 2022.

Published: 08 June 2022

A band plays on a stage silhouetted against the a bright blue background.

Open Letter Questioning Funding Cut to PRS Foundation Published

Following PRS for Music’s decision to cut funding for the PRS Foundation from 2024, a petition has been launched. Now an open letter from 50 grassroots music organisations has been published.

Published: 06 June 2022

Two people are sitting holding hands on the sofa, we can just see their hands , legs and chests.

Remembering #TheShowMustBePaused: Two Years on in the Music Industry

The MU’s Education and Equalities Officer Rose Delcour-Min reflects on the changes at the MU and in the music industry since #TheShowMustBePaused and Blackout Tuesday in 2020.

Published: 02 June 2022

Inside of a home music studio, with open laptop and small midi keyboard on desk, and sound proofing around the room.

Fix Streaming Campaign Update

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl talks through the latest developments in the campaign to fix streaming and keep music alive.

Published: 31 May 2022

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Downing Street Parties and Cost of Living Crisis

The MU responds to this week’s developments in parliament.

Published: 26 May 2022

Two hands reaching across a desk with papers and clipboards to shake hands on an agreement.

MU Legal Team Helps Several Members Achieve Substantial Settlement

The MU has recently assisted several members in achieving a substantial settlement in a long running dispute.

Published: 26 May 2022

Women sat cross legged on a mat in pyjamas in yoga/meditation pose. She has headphones in and is watching her laptop.

Re-watch Alison Gordon’s Meditation Session for Musicians’ Mental Health Month

Last month the MU in partnership with YCAT, BAPAM and Help Musicians’ UK launched Musicians’ Mental Health Month and you can now watch a recording of one of the sessions.

Published: 25 May 2022

BBC Publishes Report Emphasising Importance of the BBC’s Orchestras

The BBC’s Classical Music Review emphasises the importance of the BBC's orchestras and its crucial role in the wider classical music ecology, as well as introducing a new Head of Orchestras and Choirs position.

Published: 24 May 2022

Sunshine brightly lights two scanning machines at an airport, one for placing your bags through and one for walking through

Working in the EU Post Brexit: Performing in Marbella

In this helpful case study, freelance musician and MU member Martin Ledger talks us through the steps he took along with his band when transporting equipment to perform at a corporate event in Marbella.

Published: 24 May 2022

Official portrait of Kevin Brennan MP. Kevin has short brown hair and is wearing glasses, a dark brown striped suit and blue shirt with brown tie.

Kevin Brennan MP Elected as Chair of APPG on Music

The MU welcomes the news that Kevin Brennan MP has been elected by MPs and Peers as the new Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Music.

Published: 20 May 2022

Outside of the Welsh Parliament Offices, Cardiff

MU Welcomes New National Plan for Music Education in Wales

The new plan is substantial, detailed and ambitious. It could be a big step forward for both pupils and teachers, and the MU will be watching closely as it is rolled out.

Published: 19 May 2022

POWER UP Is First Recipient of New Changemaker Award

IMPALA have announced that the POWER UP initiative, of which the MU is a partner, has been awarded the Changemaker Award in recognition of its diversity and inclusion work.

Published: 18 May 2022

Man performing on stage with guitar under a brick arch/tunnel way, the crowd are sat watching.

Seed Sessions: Creating Roots For Better Mental Health in Male-identifying Musicians

Artist Nederveen shares his experience of working with Seed Sessions, the community interest company (CIC) combining music-making with counselling sessions for young male-identifying musicians in Bristol.

Published: 18 May 2022

A view of the houses of parliament in the rising sun, as seen across Westminster Bridge

‘We Demand Better’ National March and Rally on 18 June

The MU will be joining the trade union movement in London to tell this government: we demand better! Members are invited to join us, assembling from 10:30 am at Portland Place in Central London.

Published: 17 May 2022

Blurred bright lights and colours at night implying food trucks at a festival

Hundreds of Festivals Sign Up to AIF Safer Spaces Campaign

The UK's Association Of Independent Festivals has relaunched its Safer Spaces campaign today, with more than a hundred festivals on board. The aim is to tackle and combat sexual violence at festivals and large-scale music events.

Published: 17 May 2022

The pride flag flies against a clear bright blue sky

Celebrating IDAHOBIT in the music industry

Today, Tuesday 17 May, the MU celebrates the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT).

Published: 17 May 2022

Bright blue sky with a white sign post showing three arrows saying help, guidance, support and advice in different directions.

Acas Updates its Disability Guidance

Public body Acas has updated its disability guidance to provide clear advice on how to support disabled people at work.

Published: 16 May 2022

Collection of 6 retro style microphones on a desk with a sky blue back drop.

MU Speaks to M Magazine Ahead of Proposed Channel 4 Privatisation

The MU’s Assistant General Secretary Phil Kear spoke to PRS’ M magazine about concerns for future payments and changing working practices.

Published: 13 May 2022

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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

MU Member Receives PRS Foundation Composers’ Award

Major UK Broadcasters Back Calls for an ISA to Tackle Bullying and Harassment

Year 2 POWER UP Participants Announced

MU Joins Trade Union Members From Across the UK to Demand Better

Navigating Tours in Ireland and Europe post Brexit and Covid: A Case Study

MU to Gather Members’ Experiences of Misogyny and Sexism in Music Industry

MU and Black Lives in Music Launch 3-Year Partnership

Universities Cut Arts Courses

Channel 4 Ain’t Broke Initiative Launches with Call for Action

Carol Jack Releases Tool-Kit For Female Singers Over 40

A Tribute to Frank White, 29 January 1938 – 2 April 2022

MU Disappointed in New Equality Stats Regarding Female Festival Headliners

Call for Statements in Support of Orchestral Royalties in Australia

Ivory Ban Comes Into Force

Open Letter Questioning Funding Cut to PRS Foundation Published

Remembering #TheShowMustBePaused: Two Years on in the Music Industry

Fix Streaming Campaign Update

Downing Street Parties and Cost of Living Crisis

MU Legal Team Helps Several Members Achieve Substantial Settlement

Re-watch Alison Gordon’s Meditation Session for Musicians’ Mental Health Month

BBC Publishes Report Emphasising Importance of the BBC’s Orchestras

Working in the EU Post Brexit: Performing in Marbella

Kevin Brennan MP Elected as Chair of APPG on Music

MU Welcomes New National Plan for Music Education in Wales

POWER UP Is First Recipient of New Changemaker Award

Seed Sessions: Creating Roots For Better Mental Health in Male-identifying Musicians

‘We Demand Better’ National March and Rally on 18 June

Hundreds of Festivals Sign Up to AIF Safer Spaces Campaign

Celebrating IDAHOBIT in the music industry

Acas Updates its Disability Guidance

MU Speaks to M Magazine Ahead of Proposed Channel 4 Privatisation