Orchestral Agreements and Rates of Pay

The MU negotiates and agrees salaries, rates of pay and conditions with all the major UK orchestras, engagers and organisations, as well as setting our own promulgated rates.

Last updated: 26 September 2023

We have more than 40 collective agreements with orchestras – from freelance chamber orchestras to large symphony orchestras (such as BBC Symphony Orchestra), opera and ballet orchestras. The salaries, rates of pay, and terms and conditions for those who play in orchestras are set by the collective agreements.

In addition, we have both Freelance Agreements and Employment Agreements to ensure you get the best negotiated salary rates, terms and conditions.

We also regularly develop new in-house agreements to recognise the unique requirements of individual ensembles who work outside of the orchestral scene.

Latest news and features

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Published: 17 July 2024

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Published: 25 June 2024

Musicians holding placards as part of a demo to protect the Welsh National Opera orchestra.

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MU Orchestra Stewards

The work of the Orchestra Stewards and the Roving Stewards is vital in representing you to your employer and is a prime example of a union run by members for its members.

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If you are a freelance orchestral player wanting to take a more hands-on approach to the way your pay and terms are negotiated, join the FOC.

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