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Working as a Live Performer

Everything you need to know about performing live, across a wide range of venues and locations.

Last updated: 20 April 2023

The MU is here to support live musicians and performers across the music industry. We can help you to make the most of your gigs and assist in fixing any problems you might come up against along the way.

We are also big supporters of the grassroots live music scene and recommend that all musicians check out our Fair Play Venue list featuring the best small music venues that treat gigging musicians fairly.

Be selective with your live engagement offers and arrange to play gigs where you can attract a suitable audience.

Browse for MU quick guides to help your gigging career.

Live guides

Member benefits for live musicians

Contact the Musicians' Union today

The MU has a network of experienced teams available to help musicians in all areas of the industry. If you have any questions about our services, membership or how the MU could help you, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Contact the MU

Find a Fair Play Venue

Browse grassroots music venues where musicians can be sure of securing a fair deal.

Village Underground

A medium-sized venue which prides itself on programming artists from around the world and across different genres.

London
Read more about Village Underground

Troubadour

A historic, intimate venue offering emerging musicians a chance to showcase their burgeoning talent.

London
Read more about Troubadour

Trinity Bar

Live music venue and late night bar in Harrow, North West London. Welcoming live music of any genre.

London
Read more about Trinity Bar

Tower of Song

An artist-run venue with music to suit all tastes and each night of the week has a different theme.

Birmingham
Read more about Tower of Song

Toulouse Lautrec

Small to medium sized venue consisting of two music rooms with a piano bar for jazz soloists and duos.

London
Read more about Toulouse Lautrec

Thekla

A medium city centre venue that was once a cargo ship with live music and club nights throughout the week.

Bristol
Read more about Thekla

The Windmill

An independent live music venue which aims to put on quality live music seven nights a week.

London
Read more about The Windmill
See all venues