The latest email to all MU members was distributed this evening, with its acclaimed range of news and events items for working musicians.
– Musicians’ Union fighting for musicians’ rights in the lead up to Brexit
The Musicians’ Union (MU) was overwhelmingly in favour of remaining in the European Union. The benefits of free movement, copyright protection and joint lobbying to musicians were innumerable. As the Government now works towards Brexit, however, we would like to reassure members that we are doing everything in our power to protect musicians’ rights.

– FIM launches tool to check airlines’ instrument policies
The International Federation of Musicians (FIM) has produced a new traffic light system for airlines, based on airlines’ policies and attitudes towards musicians. We would encourage all musicians to take a look at airlines’ ratings before making a booking.

– FanFair Alliance and MMF launch innovative managers’ guide
FanFair Alliance, the recently-launched campaign against industrial-scale online ticket touting, and the Music Managers Forum have published a guide to help managers minimise the scalping and resale of their artists’ tickets on profiteering websites such as GET ME IN!, Seatwave and Stubhub.

– Partnership Advisory Service: benefit from a key membership facility
You are strongly advised to have a written agreement with your partners to avoid disputes, particularly if the band breaks up or someone leaves or is sacked. You should always seek expert advice on the legal, tax and other implications of your band arrangements.

– London Assembly survey on culture and regeneration
The London Assembly wants your views on the challenges facing London’s artistic communities and creative industries and the support both need to thrive. It is also looking at culture-led regeneration in London and would like to hear from people who have worked in or seen such projects in action.

– Campaign victory for venues in Edinburgh
The MU is delighted to report that the City of Edinburgh Council Licensing Board has agreed to revise the wording of the notorious ‘inaudibility’ clause, which has stifled live music in local music venues for years by stipulating that ‘amplified music from licensed premises must be inaudible in neighbouring residences’.

– London Drum Show: discounted ticket offer
The London Drum Show returns to London’s Olympia and MU members can benefit from a discounted advance ticket offer, saving 20% on the full price. The two-day event boasts three stages and the latest drumming gear spread across two floors.

– CPD Teachers Weekend: last chance to sign up
Teacher members are reminded that the biennial MU Teachers’ Continued Professional Development Weekend is back in October 2016, in partnership with Trinity Laban. The event will be an opportunity for teachers to network, plus share skills and good practice.

– Jazz Radio promotional offer for MU members
Jazz London Radio, London’s premier jazz internet station, is offering MU members the opportunity to reach new online audiences and to promote jazz releases, tours and gigs at a discounted rate both on air and via its popular website.

Events:
CRISP: Health & Safety Passport
17 October, Newbridge
The Creative Industries Safety Passport is a one-day health & safety course designed specifically for employed & freelance workers, working in film, TV, theatre & live events.
Black History Month diversity event
17 October, Greenwich
Almost 15% of our population identify as Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME), but do our orchestras reflect this? Our panel of invited guests will explore the subject as part of the Union’s commitment to Black History Month.
Negotiating better fees for musicians
18 October, Aberdeen
Do you have to negotiate with promoters, venue managers, other musicians, technicians and suppliers on a regular basis? This session will cover the fundamentals of negotiation, the key phases of settlement and much more.
BASCA ‘Funding for composers’
20 October, Manchester
Representatives from BASCA, PRS for Music Foundation, Arts Council England, The British Council Music and Help Musicians UK will advise attendees on the different funding opportunities available.
AIF Festival Congress
1 & 2 November, Cardiff
Festival Congress, hosted by The Association of Independent Festivals (AIF), is back for 2016. Hear from The Charlatans lead singer Tim Burgess and speakers from Secret Garden Party, Bluedot and The Eden Sessions.
