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Venues are covered under the terms of the Live Music Act if:

  • They are based in England or Wales
  • There is an existing alcohol licence
  • There are fewer than 500 people in the audience for amplified music. There is no audience limit for unamplified music.
  • The live music will not take place between the hours of 23.00 & 08.00

This is great for grassroots music, especially in pubs. A study by PRS for Music reports that bars putting on live music see an increase in ‘wet sales’ of 44% over the weekend, peaking at 60% on Friday and Saturday nights, and are on average three times less likely to close.

A live music programme can enhance a business and be a creative hub for a community. The Music Venue Trust advises on the legislative, practical and creative elements involved in hosting live music. For the artist performer the MU can provide advice on playing music in pubs, live performance contracts, health and safety issues, promotional advice and useful contacts. Our Fair Play Guide advises on fair ticket deals and we have a network of venues across the UK that support the principles of the Fair Play Guide.

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

Find a Fair Play Venue

Whether you’re planning a tour or looking for venues in your area, musicians can find places to play where you can be certain of getting a fair deal.

Browse Fair Play Venues

Fair Play Venues can be identified by the sticker displayed on the premises and can be found on our Fair Play Venue listing.

Find out more about the Fair Play Scheme and how to nominate a venue.

Find a Fair Play Venue