News & Stories for Musicians

The four panelists talking in front of an audience.

Sustainable Touring: MU Sound the Alarm at Liverpool Sound City Forum 2024

The MU hosted a panel on the critical issue of sustainable touring in the music industry at this year’s Liverpool Sound City industry conference.

Published: 14 May 2024

A young man in a wheel chair writing in his journal and working on his computer.

What Could a UBI Do For My Trade Union?

Catch up with musician Balraj Samrai, Labour MP John McDonnell and others on why unions should support a universal basic income (UBI), plus find out how you can be part of the movement too.

Published: 13 May 2024

Young woman playing acoustic guitar with friends in a field.

Members Affected by RWCMD Consultation Urged to Contact the MU

The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama is proposing to cease its weekly creative sessions for young people from the end of this academic year. Members who will be affected by this are urged to contact their local regional office.

Published: 13 May 2024

Sheet music on music stands in empty modern classroom.

Arts Apocalypse: 14 Organisations Spotlight Decimation of Arts Education in Schools

14 organisations are raising the alarm on the arts education apocalypse in our schools and colleges.

Published: 12 May 2024

Female musician busking, playing acoustic guitar and singing outdoors in the street.

MU Writes to Government Over its Failure to Address Misogyny in the Music Industry

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl has contacted Kemi Badenoch, the Minister for Women and Equalities, to express our concerns about the Government’s response to the Misogyny in Music Enquiry.

Published: 07 May 2024

View of the Victorian Brighton Pier and the Brighton wheel at sunset.

MU Statement on Musicians Wishing to Boycott The Great Escape Festival 2024

The MU stands in solidarity with members and non-members who are boycotting this year’s Great Escape Festival due to sponsorship concerns, and reiterate the importance of getting in touch with your regional office should you need support and/or advice.

Published: 03 May 2024

Members of the WNO orchestra standing outside the Bristol Hippodrome with leaflets from a demo on 27 April 2024.

Protect Welsh National Opera: Sign the Petition Now

Musicians at Welsh National Opera orchestra are campaigning to keep the orchestra full time and secure the company’s future.

Published: 02 May 2024

A female electric guitarist performing live on stage at a festival, with a drummer in the background and audience members onlooking.

Applications Open for European Artists to Showcase at ESNS 2025

European artists can now apply to perform at ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag), a key exchange for emerging European music.

Published: 02 May 2024

A musician with an acoustic guitar singing into a microphone on stage at a music venue, as audience members watch.

PRS Foundation Launches New Fund for Early Career Music Promoters

PRS Foundation has announced the Early Career Promoter Fund, a new initiative that aims to bolster the grassroots music ecosystems.

Published: 02 May 2024

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MU Responds to Recommendations Made in APPG's Inquiry on AI in Music Report

We thank the APPG for undertaking this important inquiry and while we are hopeful Government will accept its recommendations, we suggest it also introduce some additional measures to truly protect the future careers and rights of our members.

Published: 01 May 2024

A violinist playing as part of a live orchestra performance.

MU, BLiM and ABO Launch Landmark Agreement to Diversify UK Orchestras

The MU has partnered with Black Lives in Music (BLiM) and the Association of British Orchestras (ABO) to launch the 10 Point Orchestral Plan. The plan will enhance opportunities for all orchestral musicians across the UK, driving change for more inclusive recruitment.

Published: 30 April 2024

Young male musician sat in front of home studio with guitar.

New Specimen Agreement Launched for Composers Working in TV

A new agreement and reference notes have been created by the MU and the Ivors Academy as part of the Fair Score campaign, to help composers understand fair commissioning.

Published: 30 April 2024

DJ Paulette on a stage behind some DJ decks.

MU Member DJ Paulette Named DJ of the Year at Northern Music Awards

Manchester based DJ Paulette is an MU North of England Regional Committee member, and has been named ‘DJ of the year’ at the inaugural Northern Music Awards.

Published: 29 April 2024

Two new UK passports, overlapping over a map of the world.

Update for Members Working in the EU on New Government Report and Feedback Opportunity

An update for musicians working in the EU, including a DAG report referencing carnets and visa waivers, as well as your chance to tell the Government what support and resources you need when working abroad.

Published: 29 April 2024

Leeson jumping in the air with his guitar on stage.

Tribute to Leeson O’Keefe

A fantastic musician, proud Irishman and a strong advocate for equality across both political and religious boundaries. A tribute from two of Leeson’s friends and former band members.

Published: 26 April 2024

A lively crowd and street market in Portugal.

Open Call to Perform at Inaugural Showcase Festival SQUARE

Taking place in early 2025 across four Portuguese cities, SQUARE is seeking British and European artists to perform as part of its inaugural showcase line-up.

Published: 24 April 2024

Electric keyboard and microphone in foreground, with small choir group out of focus in the background.

MU Joins Calls for ‘Voice’ to be Eligible Instrument Under Orchestra Tax Relief to Enable Choirs to Benefit

Major music sector organisations, networks and individuals are calling for ‘voice’ to be added to the eligible instruments, so that choirs can claim Orchestra Tax Relief.

Published: 24 April 2024

Large up close 'Brighton' sign from Brighton Pier against a blue sky.

The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024

As part of our work with the Council of Music Makers, the MU will be taking part in various panel events during the festival’s industry conference, which is being held 15 - 18 May in Brighton. Some of our Officers will also be available for one-to-ones for any members attending.

Published: 23 April 2024

Hand turns a wooden cube and changes an unequal sign to an equal sign between symbols of men and women, on an orange background.

MU Deeply Disappointed as Government Fails to Address Misogyny in the Music Industry

Today the UK Government has responded to the Misogyny in Music Report and rejected recommendations that would help protect and support women in the music industry from harassment and discrimination, despite hearing strong evidence from women, experts and organisations in the sector.

Published: 19 April 2024

Young female Black musician, wearing headphones sat in front of a keyboard in a recording studio.

Black Lives in Music Launch YourSafetyYourSay Survey on Bullying and Harassment in the Music Industry

The survey will inform government legislation, the work of the new Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority and the wider music industry. It will also be used to support BLiM’s forthcoming Anti Racist Code of Conduct. Members are encouraged to share their experiences.

Published: 19 April 2024

Exterior of Caird Hall in the city centre of Dundee, Scotland.

Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024

This week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress with MU Delegates Christine Cooper and Ben Lunn, who discussed the importance of music education, community arts in Scotland and establishing a Music Expo Office for the country. All three of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 18 April 2024

Naomi Pohl standing outside of Westminster with three other members of the Council of Music Makers.

Fix Streaming Campaign in Westminster for First Creator Remuneration Group Meeting

The Musicians’ Union and Council of Music Makers called for a better deal for musicians and music creators at the first meeting of the Creator Remuneration Group.

Published: 18 April 2024

Exterior of the Birmingham and Midland Institute building.

MU Midlands Members Urged to Attend Public Meeting to Fight Birmingham City Council Cuts

If you live or work in Birmingham as a musician, we urge you to join us on Saturday 27 April for Brum Rise Up to have your say in the campaign to resist the cultural cuts.

Published: 16 April 2024

A musician waiting at an airport with an instrument case and luggage, while listening to music on their phone.

UK Sounds: PRS Foundation Launches New Initiative to Support UK Music Export

The MU welcomes UK Sounds, a new platform from PRS Foundation’s International Showcase Fund. The online hub will empower UK artists looking to expand overseas while connecting international industry professionals with UK talent.

Published: 11 April 2024

Members of a trade union conference sitting in seats facing a committee panel and projector screens.

NEU Conference: Championing Arts Education

The MU visited the NEU Conference in Bournemouth this year, which saw a new motion supporting arts education get passed unanimously.

Published: 09 April 2024

Tom Plater speaking into a microphone at last year’s MU Delegate Conference.

MU Motion on AI and Music Copyright Passes Unanimously at TUC Young Workers’ Conference

Our delegate Tom Plater spoke at Conference where he discussed the importance of protecting creator rights in relation to Artificial Intelligence (AI). He was also nominated for the TUC Young Workers' Forum, where he will represent the MU for a second term.

Published: 03 April 2024

A black female singer performing live at a music concert.

The REMEL Project: Addressing Race Equality in Live Music

The new REMEL project will use research to address inequalities and create a more transparent, equitable licensing model for live music.

Published: 03 April 2024

Small blue toy car over a map of Europe.

Take Part in the MU’s New Survey on Touring in the EU Post Brexit

Your answers are key to helping us assess the impact leaving the EU has had on touring musicians, and if our specialist information and guidance has been useful or needs improving. Your feedback is also vital in shaping our work when liaising with government.

Published: 03 April 2024

Young Black Woman wearing headphones and smiling at an open laptop.

MU Welcomes Launch of GENIE - A New Resource Collating Gender Equality Projects in Europe

GENIE (Gender Equality Networks in Europe) is a new database of gender equality networks, seeking to connect activists, networks and projects working with a shared mission towards gender equality in music.

Published: 02 April 2024

Empty illuminated stage with drumkit, guitar and microphones..

We’re Celebrating Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2024

This April marks Musicians’ Mental Health Month and the MU has partnered with YCAT, BAPAM and Tonic Rider to focus on the important issue of performance anxiety, alongside the launch of new member resources.

Published: 02 April 2024

A group of protestors with their fists raised up in the air in protest.

MU Offers Support and Advice on Boycotting Events

The MU is here to offer guidance to any member wishing to boycott an event, as well as provide support to musicians who have been targeted due to their political activism.

Published: 28 March 2024

Exterior of the Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff, where the Welsh National Opera is based.

MU Responds to Welsh National Opera Cuts

Musicians' Union members in the orchestra of Welsh National Opera (WNO) are facing a reduction in working weeks, equating to a 15% pay cut as a result of a funding shortfall for the company.

Published: 28 March 2024

Young Black musician looking thoughtful while looking at a laptop in a recording studio.

Celebrating BAPAM at 40

The British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) turns 40 this year, and all musicians should be aware of how this pioneering charity could help them to prevent and overcome practice-related physical and mental health problems.

Published: 27 March 2024

MU Member Jasdeep Singh Degun Makes History at Royal Philharmonic Society Awards

Jasdeep is the first sitar player to win a Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) Award in its 35 year history.

Published: 27 March 2024

A man's hand placing three wooden blocks on a table. One has a picture of a woman, one has a picture of a man, and one has the symbol of an equals sign.

Musicians' Census Finds Over Half of Women in Music Have Experienced Gender Discrimination

The Women Musicians Insight Report finds that gender inequality is still a prominent, alarming issue in the music industry, with female musicians facing much higher levels of discrimination, harassment and career barriers.

Published: 27 March 2024

A condenser microphone positioned with a laptop as part of a home studio for music recording. There is a green plant in the background.

UK Music Launches Economic Survey for Music Creators

UK Music has launched its annual economic survey for music creators, to give the industry a better understanding of the economic landscape of the music industry.

Published: 26 March 2024

Young male student sat in a library with headphones on looking at a laptop screen.

Kent University Announces Closure of All Music Courses

The MU expresses solidarity to all staff and students affected by the closures.

Published: 26 March 2024

North bank of the River Wear in Sunderland, looking toward the town centre.

MU Welcomes Funding Deal for Sunderland’s Crown Works Studios

Sunderland looks set to become one of the largest filmmaking hubs in Europe, creating opportunities for musicians across the North East.

Published: 26 March 2024

Magnifying glass over a light bulb icon on a wooden block, with yellow background.

MU Experts Delve into Labour’s New ‘Access to Arts’ Plan

In this special feature, some of the key departments at the Musicians’ Union respond to Labour’s new report on supporting the creative industries, explaining how these plans may affect our members and their careers.

Published: 19 March 2024

Audience hands in the air in front of a stage, representing community and positive wellbeing.

Why Arts Funding is Essential

From boosting the economy to enriching the lives of marginalised communities across the UK, we explore how the arts lie at the very heart of our physical, social and cultural wellbeing.

Published: 19 March 2024

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Sustainable Touring: MU Sound the Alarm at Liverpool Sound City Forum 2024

What Could a UBI Do For My Trade Union?

Members Affected by RWCMD Consultation Urged to Contact the MU

Arts Apocalypse: 14 Organisations Spotlight Decimation of Arts Education in Schools

MU Writes to Government Over its Failure to Address Misogyny in the Music Industry

MU Statement on Musicians Wishing to Boycott The Great Escape Festival 2024

Protect Welsh National Opera: Sign the Petition Now

Applications Open for European Artists to Showcase at ESNS 2025

PRS Foundation Launches New Fund for Early Career Music Promoters

MU Responds to Recommendations Made in APPG's Inquiry on AI in Music Report

MU, BLiM and ABO Launch Landmark Agreement to Diversify UK Orchestras

New Specimen Agreement Launched for Composers Working in TV

MU Member DJ Paulette Named DJ of the Year at Northern Music Awards

Update for Members Working in the EU on New Government Report and Feedback Opportunity

Tribute to Leeson O’Keefe

Open Call to Perform at Inaugural Showcase Festival SQUARE

MU Joins Calls for ‘Voice’ to be Eligible Instrument Under Orchestra Tax Relief to Enable Choirs to Benefit

The MU Returns to Great Escape Festival 2024

MU Deeply Disappointed as Government Fails to Address Misogyny in the Music Industry

Black Lives in Music Launch YourSafetyYourSay Survey on Bullying and Harassment in the Music Industry

Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024

Fix Streaming Campaign in Westminster for First Creator Remuneration Group Meeting

MU Midlands Members Urged to Attend Public Meeting to Fight Birmingham City Council Cuts

UK Sounds: PRS Foundation Launches New Initiative to Support UK Music Export

NEU Conference: Championing Arts Education

MU Motion on AI and Music Copyright Passes Unanimously at TUC Young Workers’ Conference

The REMEL Project: Addressing Race Equality in Live Music

Take Part in the MU’s New Survey on Touring in the EU Post Brexit

MU Welcomes Launch of GENIE - A New Resource Collating Gender Equality Projects in Europe

We’re Celebrating Musicians’ Mental Health Month 2024

MU Offers Support and Advice on Boycotting Events

MU Responds to Welsh National Opera Cuts

Celebrating BAPAM at 40

MU Member Jasdeep Singh Degun Makes History at Royal Philharmonic Society Awards

Musicians' Census Finds Over Half of Women in Music Have Experienced Gender Discrimination

UK Music Launches Economic Survey for Music Creators

Kent University Announces Closure of All Music Courses

MU Welcomes Funding Deal for Sunderland’s Crown Works Studios

MU Experts Delve into Labour’s New ‘Access to Arts’ Plan

Why Arts Funding is Essential