News & Stories for Musicians

Esther McVey and a crowd of musicians with protest signs saying 'fix streaming' outside of parliament for the 2021 campaign demo.

MU Reacts to Competition and Markets Authority Report Published Today

The CMA has announced that it will not be proceeding with a full market investigation into music streaming.

Published: 26 July 2022

Silhouette of women holding her head in her hands in front of an open window, while the same figure appears in the background, arms raised representing she has overcome anxiety.

Looking at Anxiety: The Feldenkrais Method for Musicians

Feldenkrais teacher Emma Alter looks at the neurophysiology of anxiety and how the Feldenkrais method can help performers.

Published: 26 July 2022

Man using calculator to count money savings and living costs. Calculator with coins and notebook on wooden table.

MU Supports New Disability Poverty Campaign Group

The new coalition calls for a thorough reassessment of social security support for disabled people, and members are encouraged to write to their MP using the Action Network Tool below.

Published: 21 July 2022

Silhouette of rising sun over the mountains in early morning

A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

Naomi Pohl, the new MU General Secretary, outlines plans for returning to work, improving our culture for staff and members and – given we’re all involved in music – listening more closely to each other.

Published: 21 July 2022

Member only Read more about A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

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MU Responds to APPG Report Which Sets to Remove Barriers To EU Tours and Help Boost UK Music Industry

The new APPG Report provides details on the action the Government should take to help UK musicians and crew tour Europe more easily.

Published: 20 July 2022

Golden opera mask and a white wooden fan on a bright turquoise background

MU Reiterates Black Face Position Statement

The reiteration comes following the Arena di Verona’s summer festival’s decision to darken performers skin for their roles in Verdi’s Aida, and their subsequent defence of this decision.

Published: 18 July 2022

3D graphic map of the UK and rest of Europe. UK and EU flag designs are over each area and 3D trucks wait at each side of the crossing showing the difficulty transporting goods.

Brexit Update and New Head of International Role at The MU

Dave Webster, former National Organiser for Live Performance has recently been appointed as Head of International at the MU. Here he brings members an update on our work to address the impact of Brexit for musicians.

Published: 15 July 2022

Side view of Manchester bar at the nighttime with red neon sign saying 'Going out is the new staying in' after lockdown restirctions were eased last year.

The Road To Recovery: Musicians and Covid

Almost one year after restrictions began to lift, how is the fallout from Covid affecting UK musicians on the ground? Here artists across a range of genres share their experiences and assess the need for a fairer music industry.

Published: 13 July 2022

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MU Welcomes News That Paul Nowak Is Set To Become New TUC General Secretary

Paul Nowak, TUC Deputy General Secretary, is set to succeed Frances O’Grady as TUC General Secretary when she retires at the end of the year.

Published: 12 July 2022

Close up of a mix of children stacking hands, representing inclusion and teamwork.

Trinity College London Launches First Ever Fully-Inclusive Music Qualifications in Association with Sounds of Intent

Available from September 2022, the qualifications will be open to any UK school or other organisation that works with learners with special educational needs, additional support needs or disabilities.

Published: 12 July 2022

A policeman with hands behind his back in front of 10 Downing Street in London.

MU Reacts to Prime Minister’s Resignation

Further to the news that Boris Johnson has resigned as leader of the Conservative Party and UK Prime Minister, the MU reflects on what musicians need from the Government now.

Published: 08 July 2022

Close up of musical icons on on wooden cubes/blocks. Icons include: microphone, headphones, loud speaker, radio, and vinyl discs.

MU Meets with Leader of Labour Party

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl met with Labour leader Keir Starmer this week to talk through the Union’s policy priorities.

Published: 06 July 2022

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

Black hand holding a black megaphone against a bright yellow background.

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

A small red vintage style television on a light wood surface with a pale beige painted background

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

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MU Reacts to Competition and Markets Authority Report Published Today

Looking at Anxiety: The Feldenkrais Method for Musicians

MU Supports New Disability Poverty Campaign Group

A Unique Opportunity: New General Secretary's Plans

MU Responds to APPG Report Which Sets to Remove Barriers To EU Tours and Help Boost UK Music Industry

MU Reiterates Black Face Position Statement

Brexit Update and New Head of International Role at The MU

The Road To Recovery: Musicians and Covid

MU Welcomes News That Paul Nowak Is Set To Become New TUC General Secretary

Trinity College London Launches First Ever Fully-Inclusive Music Qualifications in Association with Sounds of Intent

MU Reacts to Prime Minister’s Resignation

MU Meets with Leader of Labour Party

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