ABO and MU Fixer's ED&I Checklist for Orchestral Musicians

The MU and the ABO (Association of British Orchestras) have collaborated to create a checklist for orchestral musicians to make sure they're using inclusive fixing practices. 

1. Build and Maintain an Inclusive Player Pool

• Keep a broad, diverse, regularly updated list of musicians.
• Ensure joining the list is transparent and accessible.
• Use clear, consistent artistic criteria (blend, technique, reliability, repertoire fit).
• Avoid relying solely on personal networks or familiarity

2. Fixing for Planned Projects

• Consider reasonable adjustments (travel, access, caring responsibilities, health needs).
• Musicians should not be penalised for previously declining work for legitimate reasons.
• Provide full project details as early as possible: schedule, venue, repertoire, access info, parking, porterage.
• Ask whether adjustments are required.

3. Fixing at Short Notice

• Rotate short-notice opportunities where possible.
• Contact all suitable players, not just those known to respond quickly.
• Keep a brief record of who was contacted and why.

4. Access, Adjustments and Barriers

• Ask about access needs (venue access, step-free routes, parking, warm-up space, health needs).
• Ensure adjustments do not affect future fixing opportunities.
• Offer alternatives where possible (e.g., seating, call times, accessible routes).
• Recognise barriers linked to certain instruments (harp, tuba, double bass, percussion).
• Ensure porterage, parking and safe storage are arranged appropriately.

5. Communication and Conduct

• Use clear, respectful, inclusive language.
• Avoid assumptions about availability, family status, health or background.
• Confirm bookings promptly and give as much notice as possible.
• Share repertoire, seating plans and logistical information early.
• Share names of other players on the gig, respecting player confidentiality at all times.

6. Monitoring and Reflection

• Keep light-touch records of fixing patterns.
• Review who is being fixed regularly vs. overlooked.
• Monitor last-minute vs. planned work distribution.
• Discuss fixing patterns with the orchestra manager or artistic team.

7. Feedback and Support

• Encourage musicians to update CVs, recordings and availability.
• Provide general feedback after trials or auditions, in line with the organisation’s recruitment policy and procedures, where capacity allows.
• Make it clear that raising concerns will not affect future work.
• Treat all feedback confidentially and professionally.
• Create a system for all freelancers to offer feedback on an organisation’s processes, whether anonymously or otherwise.