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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.

Peckham Levels

Venue hosting live gigs and club nights either in 450-standing capacity Gig Space or 150-standing capacity Auditorium.

London
Read more about Peckham Levels

The Shed

A community space with a cafe bar offering live music, open mic nights, comedy and networking events.

Leicester
Read more about The Shed

The Slaughtered Lamb

A contemporary pub venue with an entertainment space in the basement for live music, club nights, DJ’s and comedy.

London
Read more about The Slaughtered Lamb

The Tin Music and Arts

An artistic hub (with artist’s studio and Community Space) offering events across two neighbouring premises which books established and international acts, as well as local homegrown talent.

Coventry
Read more about The Tin Music and Arts

The Tolbooth

A city centre-based contemporary music and arts venue, with programmes featuring music from established performers of all genres, as well as upcoming artists and bands.

Stirling
Read more about The Tolbooth

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