News & Stories for Musicians

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MU Fair Play Scheme: What We’ve Achieved So Far and What’s Next

Kelly Wood, MU National Organiser for Live, Theatre and Music Writers explains what the Fair Play scheme is, why it’s important, and how we’re continuing to help to educate artists, grassroots venues and promoters in what represents a mutually fair deal.

Published: 31 August 2023

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Culture Committee Report on AI Recognises Concerns of the UK Music Industry

A report published today from the Culture Media & Sport Select Committee on AI in the creative industries reiterates calls from the MU and other music industry bodies to take the government’s proposed copyright exception for AI text and data mining off the table permanently.

Published: 30 August 2023

Secondary school children sat around tables in a classroom, sharing an electronic keyboard having a music lesson.

The MU and NEU: A Shared Belief in Every Child’s Right To Music

MU National Organiser for Education Chris Walters discusses the vital importance of all children being able to access music and arts education in an article for NEU’s Educate magazine.

Published: 30 August 2023

Back of the room at MU Delegate Conference 2023, showing delegates sat down and facing the front table and screens.

Updates to MU Rules 2023

At the 2023 Delegate Conference, 20 changes to the MU Rules were proposed and passed. The updated MU Rules are applicable to all members from 26 July 2023.

Published: 29 August 2023

A candle in soft focus, representing a vigil.

Join the Vigil and Support the Justice for Sheku Bayoh Campaign

On Monday 28 August a vigil will take place in Edinburgh ahead of the public inquiry looking into the death of Sheku Bayoh in 2015. Members are encouraged to attend if they are able to.

Published: 24 August 2023

Early Years Music Opens Programme of Events and Mentoring Opportunities for Musicians in Scotland

The year-long programme offers free online events for those working with children in the early years in Scotland, as well as mentoring opportunities with Chair of the MU’s Education Committee Yvonne Wyroslawska.

Published: 21 August 2023

A wall of multi coloured vintage boom box devices

The Enduring Power of Hip-Hop, 50 Years On

On the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, the MU assesses how the genre has grown from the margins to the mainstream, empowering communities and highlighting social injustice, poverty and racism.

Published: 17 August 2023

Sarah Tomlinson: “I Wish I’d Used the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme Years Ago”

MU Education Rep Sarah Tomlinson tells us why she decided to use the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme and why hearing health is important for everyone.

Published: 14 August 2023

Four wooden cubes with head symbols and a hand that is flipping one to reveal a lightbulb representing an idea.

Member’s Voice: Alice Angliss on Why She Attends MU Regional Committee Meetings

Musician and MU London member Alice Angliss shares her first-hand experience of what Regional Committee meetings are, how they work and why they’re vital in giving support to members and the industry.

Published: 10 August 2023

Crowd with raised hands in front of small stage for a live performance. Dimly lit with purple stage lights.

Boost Your Career With Fair Play on Tour Event Series Taking Over Grassroots Venues Across the UK

Learn how to protect your rights and your wellbeing with the MU's series of events and masterclasses, taking place in independent Fair Play Venues across all four nations of the UK.

Published: 09 August 2023

Busker sat on a small camping stall in London next to a red phone box, playing acoustic guitar on his knee with a guitar case open for passers-by.

MU Reaffirms Support for Buskers

Further to discussions on Good Morning Britain last week, which considered whether busking should be banned, the MU confirms that it stands firmly against the notion of licensing buskers, and that they deserve respect and recognition for their work.

Published: 04 August 2023

“The MU Couldn’t Function Without You” - Chair of the Executive Committee Alex Gascoine Addresses MU Delegate Conference

Chair of the Executive Committee Alex Gascoine opened MU Delegate Conference with a look at how work has changed in the last two years, and how the union is tackling the big challenges facing musicians.

Published: 02 August 2023

Small child wearing ear defenders sits on someone's shoulders while looking at a large concert at a festival

Basic Income North Conference Explores Relationship Between Trade Unions and UBI

Why should trade unions support universal basic income, and what can unions do to support the UBI movement? A panel at the Basic Income North Conference 2023 explored the issues.

Published: 28 July 2023

Colourful paper chain of people in a circle, in the middle of open cupped hands, representing safeguarding and protection.

MU Launch New Safeguarding Resources For Musicians Who Teach

The new resources define best practice in safeguarding for members working with children and vulnerable adults.

Published: 27 July 2023

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 PAT tester Mike Nottage writes up his answers to your most frequently asked PAT testing questions, and some thoughts from the PAT testing events he’s run in the past for MU members.

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

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MU Fair Play Scheme: What We’ve Achieved So Far and What’s Next

Culture Committee Report on AI Recognises Concerns of the UK Music Industry

The MU and NEU: A Shared Belief in Every Child’s Right To Music

Updates to MU Rules 2023

Join the Vigil and Support the Justice for Sheku Bayoh Campaign

Early Years Music Opens Programme of Events and Mentoring Opportunities for Musicians in Scotland

The Enduring Power of Hip-Hop, 50 Years On

Sarah Tomlinson: “I Wish I’d Used the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme Years Ago”

Member’s Voice: Alice Angliss on Why She Attends MU Regional Committee Meetings

Boost Your Career With Fair Play on Tour Event Series Taking Over Grassroots Venues Across the UK

MU Reaffirms Support for Buskers

“The MU Couldn’t Function Without You” - Chair of the Executive Committee Alex Gascoine Addresses MU Delegate Conference

Basic Income North Conference Explores Relationship Between Trade Unions and UBI

MU Launch New Safeguarding Resources For Musicians Who Teach

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