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The
Musician
Journal of the Musicians’ Union
Winter 2019
theMU.org
KEEP
MUSIC
LIVE
#VoteAgainstBrexit
contacts
Union HQ Regional Offices
General Secretary Head of Communications London
Horace Trubridge & Government Relations Regional Organiser: Jamie Pullman
Isabelle Gutierrez 33 Palfrey Place, London SW8 1PE
Deputy General Secretary t 020 7840 5504
Naomi Pohl In-House Solicitor e london@theMU.org
Dawn Rodger
Assistant General Secretary East & South East England
Phil Kear PR & Marketing Official Regional Organiser: Paul Burrows
Keith Ames 1a Fentiman Road,
National Organiser London SW8 1LD
Jo Laverty (Orchestras) Recording & Broadcasting Official t 020 7840 5537
Michael Sweeney e eastsoutheast@theMU.org
National Organiser
Diane Widdison (Education & Training) Licensing & Distribution Official Midlands
Annie Turner Regional Organiser: Stephen Brown
National Organiser 2 Sovereign Court,
Geoff Ellerby (Recording & Broadcasting) Sessions Official Graham Street,
Sam Jordan Birmingham B1 3JR
National Organiser t 0121 236 4028
Dave Webster (Live Performance) Live Performance Official e midlands@theMU.org
Kelly Wood
Wales & South West England
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Official Regional Organiser: Andy Warnock
John Shortell Transport House, 1 Cathedral Rd,
Cardiff CF11 9SD
Orchestras Official t 029 2045 6585
Morris Stemp e cardiff@theMU.org
Campaigns & Social Media Official North of England
Maddy Radcliff Regional Organiser: Matt Wanstall
61 Bloom Street,
Manchester M1 3LY
Union HQ t 0161 236 1764
60–62 Clapham Road e manchester@theMU.org
London sw9 0jj
Scotland & Northern Ireland
t 020 7582 5566 Regional Organiser: Caroline Sewell
f 020 7582 9805 Suite 6A, 1st floor,
e info@theMU.org 1/2 Woodside Place,
Glasgow G3 7QF
w theMU.org t 0141 341 2960
@WeAreTheMU e glasgow@theMU.org
REPORT
Your Vote Matters
Only 2% of people questioned in a Music Week survey thought that Brexit would be
good for the music industry – but you have to make up your own minds…
and music publishing areas of the industry The potential costs and administrative
and is mostly about, and read by, music burden of arranging visas, work permits
industry professionals rather than and carnets for upwards of 60 musicians
performers and creators. Nevertheless, will seriously erode any profit that they
when it ran a survey of its readers to might otherwise need to balance the books
ascertain whether they thought that and keep their heads above water during a
Brexit would be good or bad for the UK period of sustained arts funding cuts.
music industry as a whole, the results
were compelling. Only 2% of those Consider the consequences
surveyed said that they thought Brexit So, for musicians, this is a Brexit election
would be good for the business. Bearing in and you are now reading the ‘Vote Against
mind that the record and music publishing Brexit’ edition of The Musician magazine.
industry is not party political and could That said, it would be wholly wrong of me to
arguably be described as conservative tell you how to vote in the general election
with a small ‘c’, the results of this survey so I’m not going to do it. That decision, as
© Joanna Dudderidge
are sobering to say the least. they say, is between you and the ballot box.
Administrative headache
If Brexit goes ahead we are looking at “For the music business, 3
Horace Trubridge,
massive administrative burdens for
musicians who make some or all of this general election is
General Secretary their living by performing, recording
and selling merchandise and physical
all about Brexit and the
Hopefully, you are reading this a few
product in EU member countries. The
free movement of people, goods and
damage that it will do.”
days before the country goes to the polls services has been the cornerstone
on 12 December. You will have seen from of our membership of the EU, and has But equally, I would not be doing my duty as
the cover of The Musician the position enabled UK musicians to develop and General Secretary of the Musicians’ Union
that the Union is taking regarding this sustain new markets without the need if I didn’t point out the consequences Brexit
general election. Regardless of what the for lengthy and costly bureaucracy. The will have on our profession and the simple
politicians may tell you, for the music reintroduction of visas, work permits truth that stopping the Conservatives from
business, this general election is all and carnets will knock the profit out of regaining power in the forthcoming election
about Brexit and the damage that it will touring abroad for many of our members, is the only opportunity we have of calling
do to our wonderful profession. and will also greatly reduce the number it all off. A Johnson-negotiated Brexit, or
of musicians from EU countries who visit possibly even worse, a hard Brexit, will do
Music Week is a music industry trade the UK and who, in many cases, engage untold damage to our profession, now and
magazine. It may not be familiar to you as and/or collaborate with UK musicians. for many years to come.
it is very much focused on the recording
Furthermore, many of the UK’s fantastic Please use your vote wisely.
orchestras currently depend upon income Horace Trubridge
derived from performing in EU countries.
TO HEAR MORE FROM HORACE,
VISIT THEMU.ORG
The Musician • Winter 2019
Contents
Winter 2019
4
10
“The end of freedom of
movement will make it more
difficult and expensive for UK The CBSO is one of
many UK orchestras
orchestras to tour Europe.” that regularly
work in Europe.
The Musician • Winter 2019
Frontline Features
6 Media highlights new MU 20 Diet guidance: how musicians
survey on sexual harassment can stay healthy on the road
7 Safety advice for musicians 34 Fair Play Focus:
travelling on tour buses Exchange, Bristol
8 MU Insurance terms update 50 Why I Joined The MU: Three
members share their stories Find out why the
Reports Musicians’ Union
© Joanna Dudderidge
3 MU General Secretary Your Voice remains opposed
to Brexit
10 Why voting against Brexit 9 Interacting with MU members
makes sense for musicians and supporters on Twitter
14 Deputy General Secretary
16 BBC Music Introducing Live Profile
28 How musicians can help to 24 Film and television
tackle the issue of e-waste composer Timo Baker Union Notices
32 MU Music Writers’ Committee 2 Key MU contacts
36 Success for MU songwriters’ Reviews 42 Ask Us First
workshop in Glasgow 43 Albums, EPs and downloads 46 Tributes
39 Assistant General Secretary released by MU members 49 MU Election results
40 The MU Equalities Committee 51 Member benefits
5
MU Contributors
Clive Katie Henry Neil
Somerville Nicholls Yates Crossley
A journalist, Katie is a Henry is a A journalist and
broadcaster and freelance journalist freelance writer from editor who has written
editor, Clive has and editor whose Gloucestershire who for The Independent,
written for HMV, features and reviews has written for titles The Daily Telegraph,
The Sunday Times have appeared in as diverse as Classic The Guardian and
and BBC Radio, and titles such as Mojo, Rock, Total Guitar, The Financial Times.
presented an Arts The Guardian NME and Record Neil also fronts the
review radio show. p46 and Kerrang! p28 Collector. p20 band Furlined. p16
Roy Will David Neil
Delaney Simpson Pollock Churchman
Roy has Will has David writes Neil is an
written for Metal contributed to a range for The Scotsman, List, experienced journalist
Hammer, Classic Rock of music magazines, The Guardian, and The in broadcasting and
and Melody Maker, and including Total Guitar, Independent, among print. A former BBC
is the lead singer and Guitarist and Mixmag. others. He has written national newsroom
drummer with the Will has also published books about running assistant editor, he
two-piece punk rock the book Freedom music venues for the now writes on music
band Hacksaw. p34 Through Football. p24 Music Venue Trust. p36 and the media. p32
© Andrew Fox
The Musician • Winter 2019
BREXIT AND YOU The MU is fighting to protect musicians’ right to travel when
! working in the EU post-Brexit. We want to hear from you about how Brexit has
affected your working plans for 2019. #WorkingInTheEU bit.ly/2AzdUAV
frontline
Winter 2019
The MU in action, working on behalf of professional musicians.
© deepblue4you / Getty Images
Media Highlights
New MU Survey On
Sexual Harassment
MU research highlighting the prevalence of
sexual harassment in the music industry
prompted a wave of media coverage when it
was published on 23 October. The Guardian,
6 The Independent, BBC News online, ITV
News online and Sky News online were
among the dozens of news sources who
reported on the findings, which reveal
that 48% of respondent musicians have
experienced sexual harassment at work,
and that 85% did not report it.
Workplace culture
is cited as the
The research suggests that almost two- greatest barrier to
thirds (61%) of musicians feel they are more reporting harassment.
at risk because they work on a freelance
basis. Freelance musicians make up 90% of
the MU’s 32,000 membership but only one in
five (19%) say the contracts they work under
include policies or procedures to deal with
“I understand I was one of 10 women making
reports about the same individual and yet
“Survivors are often
incidents of sexual harassment. no action was taken as far as I’m aware,” she
said. “I was told this was just ‘lad culture’.”
unable to speak
The MU is now calling on government
to extend the protections relating to In 2018, the MU set up a ‘Safe Space’ email
out because the
discrimination and harassment in the
Equality Act 2010 to freelancers. The MU is
for members to report sexual harassment,
abuse, bullying and discrimination. MU Deputy
consequences for
also encouraging the public to sign a petition
seeking stronger legislation to protect
General Secretary Naomi Pohl says the Union
has since received well over 100 reports
their career or personal
freelancers from sexual harassment. but very few have led to any form of justice. life are devastating.”
“Survivors are often unable to speak out
Workplace culture is currently cited as the because the consequences for their career Naomi Pohl,
greatest barrier to reporting harassment or personal life are devastating,” she says.
(55%), followed by fear of losing work (41%).
MU Deputy General Secretary
One woman, a freelance musician who For more information visit theMU.org.
wished to remain anonymous, said she had To sign the petition visit megaphone.org.uk/
reported sexual harassment by a high-profile petitions/end-sexual-harassment-at-work-
individual to a major employer in the industry. for-freelancers-too.
The Musician • Winter 2019
FRONTLINE
MU Offers Advice Edinburgh Tattoo
On Tour Bus Safety Battle Not Over Yet
The MU is advising musicians to wear The MU contacted organisers of the Royal
seatbelts whenever possible on tour buses, Edinburgh Military Tattoo after they were
and avoid moving around when the vehicle found to be advertising for professional
is in motion, after a nightliner – or sleeper musicians to form a new stage band,
bus – crashed in Norway. performing the full 25-show run throughout
© Gus Campbell
Thangam Debbonaire MP
August 2019 and granting rights for global
and Horace Trubridge. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, TV broadcast, without any payment. Despite
but the incident highlights the range of the efforts of both our Live Performance
accommodation now available on tour department and Scotland & NI Regional
MU Presence At
buses – from sofas and bunks to double Office, the Tattoo proceeded as planned, with
beds – and that seatbelts and clips are not only food and accommodation provided for
Party Conferences
always obvious. band members in lieu of proper remuneration.
Dave Webster, Musicians’ Union National The MU argued that an event, with an annual
Following the success of last year’s Organiser Live Performance, commented: attendance of 220,000 and ticket prices
MU presence at both the Labour Party “Thankfully we do not get reports of from £25 to £90, should have the budget
Conference and the Conservative Party accidents involving tour buses but that’s to adequately remunerate musicians of the
Conference, we could be found once again not to say it doesn’t happen. Our advice to experience and quality required. Organisers
presenting at both events, highlighting to members who may be engaged on such maintained their advertisement was not
ministers, MPs and delegates the threat to tours is to be aware of the accommodation aimed at professionals, despite specifying 7
the movement of musicians across Europe provided and ask whether the buses will be Grade 8-standard qualification and
post-Brexit and our concerns about the travelling through the night. experience in a show band or pit orchestra.
decline of music tuition for all in UK schools.
“Where seatbelts are available, musicians The MU remains strongly opposed to these
For the first time, at the Conservative should wear them and avoid moving around arguments and is committed to maintaining
Conference we also hosted a ‘Meet the the bus when it’s in motion. They should a positive dialogue with the organisers with
MU’ fringe event at the Midland Hotel in only use the more relaxed seating when the the aim of successfully resolving matters
Manchester, which proved to be particularly bus is stationary.” prior to the 2020 event.
popular with delegates. Live music was
provided by the excellent Levaré String
“Where seatbelts are
How To Benefit From
Quartet from the RNCM, who received
numerous plaudits for their performance.
available, musicians
Our stand design and teamwork were noted
should wear them.” MU Band Agreement
by the organisers in Brighton, as we won the
prestigious Best Stand award at the Labour MU members are strongly advised to have
Conference and were presented with the Dave Webster, a written agreement with their music
plaque by comedian Eddie Izzard. MU National Organiser partners to avoid disputes, particularly if
the band breaks up or someone leaves or is
sacked, and to avoid inappropriate provisions
Industry Stats of the Partnership Act 1890.
Always seek expert advice on the legal,
£5.2bn 72% 139,352 tax and other implications of your band
arrangements, and particularly if you are
The amount the UK music The percentage of self- The number of people considering any of the less usual alternatives
industry contributed to the employed people working in employed in the UK Music outlined above. Provided that your partners
economy in 2018. music, performing and the Creators’ sector in 2018. are all MU members or join, the Union offers
visual arts (DCMS). a free written partnership agreement tailored
to your needs. For details, members should
For the latest news on how the Musicians’ Union is helping you visit theMU.org contact their MU Regional Office.
The Musician • Winter 2019
! SUPPORT THE MU Love Music? Encourage your music-loving
friends and family to sign up as MU Supporters at theMU.org
Update On MU Inspiring Stories Of
© Simon Chapman / LNP / Shutterstock
Idles at the Downs
Insurance Terms Female Musicians
Festival, Bristol,
31 August 2019.
From 1 January 2020, member-owned Musical Journeys is a new book by cellist
computers, laptops and tablets will carry a Hattie Bennett BEM, which recounts the
higher excess of £350 for each and every stories of 18 extraordinary female musicians
claim. Claims will be restricted to £4,000 including Sidonie Goossens, Thea King,
per member in any five-year period from Evelyn Rothwell, Marta Eitler and Chrissy
the date of loss. Lee. It focuses on their life in the music
business working in concert halls, clubs,
The policy otherwise remains worldwide opera houses, studios and theatres around
cover for loss or damage to owned musical the world. For more information, email
instruments/equipment up to £2,000 per hattiebennett@hotmail.com
Report Reveals Value
member in any 12 months from the date of
Vlog For Bassists
loss, plus up to £200 for hire charges limited
Of Outdoor Music
to £500 during the period of insurance
subject to policy terms and conditions.
Bassist Jack Stevens has launched a vlog
Any music teacher or lecturer that is Outdoor music events in 2018 contributed for bass players. To date his interviews have
aware of any claim or circumstance of £13.6bn in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the included Ellen O’Reilly, Dave Troke, Dishan
professional negligence, errors or omissions UK economy and created 234,380 full-time Abrahams, Sam Odiwe, Pete Daynes, Dan
that may give rise to a claim under the MU equivalent jobs, according to a report carried Ezard and recently Andrea Goldsworthy.
Professional Indemnity Insurance for music out by Bournemouth University for the Check it out at youtube.com/c/bassmanjack
8 teachers must report to Hencilla Canworth by Events Industry Forum.
MU Journal In Digital
31 December 2019. Failure to do so may result
in the claim not being covered. The report, funded via subscriptions from
events industry publication The Purple Guide,
Members with any tax investigation claims concluded that 45% of all outdoor event Musicians’ Union members can now choose
issues should also advise Hencilla Canworth spending was by people going to music to receive The Musician in digital format
prior to 1 January 2020 for reporting under events, with outdoor music events providing only, by selecting the appropriate option
the MU Tax Investigation Cover. the highest GVA and employment figures. under ‘Communication Preferences’ when
they log into the MU website at theMU.org.
To make an insurance claim, email Overall, there were 141.5 million visits to The MU would also like to remind members
kevin.harding@hencilla.co.uk or call outdoor events in 2018, with a total on-site that The Musician is available as a PDF, in
020 8686 5050. and off-site spend of £39.5bn. large print and in audio on the MU website.
Dates For The Diary
11 Dec 28-30 Jan 08 Feb 04-05 Mar 22-25 Apr
What: Tax & Accounting What: AmericanaFest What: Question Session What: Music & Drama What: Brighton Music
For Musicians UK 2020 Annual Music Conference Education Expo 2020 Conference (electronic
Where: Oh Yeah Music Where: Oslo Hackney, Where: The Lighthouse, Where: Olympia, music & networking event)
Centre, 15-21 Gordon 1A Amhurst Road, Mitchell Lane, Hammersmith Road, Where: Various venues
Street, Belfast BT1 2LG London E8 1LL Glasgow G1 3NU London W14 8UX around the town
Info: theMU.org Info: tinyurl.com/amaukconf Info: questionsession.co.uk Info: tinyurl.com/qqprzn5 Info: tinyurl.com/qu3ypkd
The Musician • Winter 2019
FRONTLINE
Your Voice THE TEAM
Editor Keith Ames (MU)
Consultant editor Neil Crossley
This selection of tweets, emails and letters reflects the Art editor Chris Stenner
Writers Keith Ames, Neil Crossley,
diverse range of dialogue between the MU and its members. Neil Churchman, Roy Delaney, Katie
Nicholls, David Pollock, Will Simpson,
Clive Somerville, Henry Yates
Production editor Andrea Ball
In Praise Of Trinity Director of content marketing
Trinity Laban Conservatoire
The article ‘The value of Clare Jonik
of Music and Dance in Head of Fusion procurement and
Teaching’ in the Autumn Greenwich, London. production Matt Eglinton
2019 edition of The Musician Senior account manager
raises some good points, but Rebecca Nannery
is rather one-sided. Trinity Editorial director Mark Donald
David Bleeker Architectural / Alamy Stock Photo
Art director Stuart Hobbs
College of Music was the
Repro Gary Stuckey
first music college in the Printed at Precision Colour Printing
world to introduce graded See p2 for the contact details of
music exams in 1877 (now an Musicians’ Union offices.
independent arm known as
Trinity College London), and
has consistently been in the
vanguard of developing exams
to encourage and reward the
student. These innovations All information contained in this journal is for
informational purposes only and is, to the best
include their approach to of our knowledge, correct at the time of going
to press. This journal is published by Future
scales and arpeggios which Publishing Limited on behalf of Musicians’ Union. 9
allows the player to play scalic granted her visa – letters Valiant Brexit Battle Neither Future Publishing Limited nor Musicians’
Union accept any responsibility for errors or
exercises using music, and of support sent from all the Kudos to @JohnJCrace for inaccuracies that occur in such information.
Readers are advised to contact manufacturers
no theory requirement for organisations who are involved highlighting the threat #Brexit and retailers direct with regard to the price of
practical exams above Grade in the project – this is the reality poses to the UK classical products/services in the journal. Publication
of an advertisement does not imply any form
5 (although, being Ofqual around freedom of movement music industry. British choirs, of recommendation. Organisations offering
financial services or insurance are governed by
approved, Trinity College @WeAreTheMU orchestras, opera singers their relevant regulatory bodies and problems
London theory exams are Xenia Horne Harpist et al are fighting valiantly. with such services should be taken up with those
bodies. Neither Future Publishing Limited nor
accepted when entering @UKHarpists Credit @ISM_music and Musicians’ Union accept any liability for the quality
of goods and services offered in advertisements.
for higher exams with other @WeAreTheMU for leading We do our best to avoid inaccuracies, but if you
exam boards), making them Freedom Of Movement our campaigns. believe that an error has been made, please
contact the editor straight away before taking any
very accessible and avoiding FOM is more than being Richard Bannan other action and the Union will take appropriate
steps. If you submit material to this journal, you
many of the negatives that about having the right to take @richardbannan automatically grant Future Publishing Limited
are associated with taking up residence in another EU and Musicians’ Union a licence to publish your
submissions in whole or in part in any edition of
music exams. country (either permanently or Thank You MU this journal that is published worldwide in any
format or media throughout the world, and you
Robert Parker, Nottingham temporarily). FOM is essential So grateful to be part of grant Musicians’ Union a licence to publish your
robertannparker@aol.com for certain sectors, such as @WeAreTheMu. Wonderful to submissions in whole or in part in any format or
media for the purpose of promoting any products
the creative industries, which be able to send contracts to be or services referred to in your submissions. Any
Visa Struggles is why @WeAreTheMU are checked by someone who is material you submit is sent at your risk and
neither Future Publishing Limited nor Musicians’
Still waiting to hear if our against losing it. Jobs will be actually trained to read them. Union nor their respective employees, agents
or subcontractors shall be liable for any loss
wonderful Georgian Singing lost without it. Nicolette Macleod or damage. © Future Publishing Limited and
Musicians’ Union 2019. All rights reserved. No part
workshop leader will be Jude Cann Hunt @CannHunt @nicolettemmusic of this journal may be used or reproduced without
the written permission of Future Publishing
Limited and Musicians’ Union.
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The Musician • Winter 2019
Keep Music Live
#VoteAgainstBrexit
© Marcus Tondo / WWD / Shutterstock
On the eve of a general election, the
Musicians’ Union outlines the reasons
why it remains opposed to Brexit.
Rita Ora (above) was among
the musicians who signed an
In a matter of days, the UK will be going remain. The Liberal Democrats, if they won open letter calling for an end to
to the polls for the third time in four years. a majority, have pledged to revoke Article Brexit. The end of freedom of
The reason? The EU referendum in June 50 and abandon Brexit. movement will make it harder
for orchestras such as the LSO
2016, which irrevocably changed our (right) to tour the EU. Member
country and our politics and has made it The SNP, Plaid Cymru and the Green Party of Parliament and MU member
almost impossible for parliament to agree are also anti-Brexit and are all calling for a Kevin Brennan (far right).
or to function properly. second referendum, while the Brexit Party,
as it says on the tin, is in favour of Brexit but
Both for those who oppose Brexit and for would prefer a harder Brexit than the one
10 those who want to leave the EU, this set out in Boris Johnson’s deal.
election is likely to represent the last
opportunity for people to vote in a Why is the MU anti Brexit?
government that will carry out their wishes. Musicians need to be able to work to tour 27 countries without any need for visas
overseas free of extra burdens and added or work permits for musicians, or carnets
Positions on Brexit costs, and the MU has long argued that (temporary export licences) for instruments.
At the time of going to press, political parties Brexit will damage the music industry. In
had not yet published their manifestos. fact, when the music industry (musicians, Freedom of movement also means that UK
Positions on Brexit, however, have been composers, songwriters, lyricists, orchestras can recruit from a talent pool of
widely publicised. producers and artist managers) were over 500 million, while a large proportion of
asked how leaving the European Union guest artists travel here on EU passports
The Conservatives want to leave the EU by would impact on their ability to work in the and can thus accept a typically poorly-paid
31 January 2020, either with Boris Johnson’s music business, only 2% thought Brexit (by international standards) week with a
deal or, failing that, without a deal. would have a positive impact compared to British orchestra without too much
50% who said it would have a negative impact. administrative hassle.
The Labour Party say that they would
negotiate a different Brexit deal with the EU, Any Brexit that ends free movement for Even in the long term, the end of freedom
which they would then put to the public in a musicians will cause major problems in our of movement will make it more difficult and
second referendum, where people would industry. Some of our members visit several expensive for UK orchestras to tour in Europe.
choose between the Brexit deal and European countries over the course of a week, It could mean orchestras having to add more
often with very little notice, and do this on a non-playing (and thus non-earning) days to
regular basis. each tour to deal with longer and more
complicated movement. It could also end in
Make Them Listen Orchestral touring opportunities beyond the
EU have been growing in recent decades,
European promoters deciding that booking
British orchestras is just too much hassle.
Regardless of who wins, we want musicians’ reflecting the fact that classical music is
concerns to be on their list of priorities. After actually a growth industry when looked at on The local music scenes that make up the UK’s
the election, please look up your new MP a global scale. But these tours are always very live sector are also reliant on touring acts, not
at theyworkforyou.com and send them the costly and time-consuming to put together, just from other parts of the UK but from
postcard that you will find included in this not least because of the complex visa, carnet
issue of The Musician. and paperwork requirements. European
touring has been much easier – with the ability
The Musician • Winter 2019PROFILE
REPORT
© Joanna Dudderidge
View from an
MU Member
“Of all the issues that have been
brought to the fore with the Brexit
debate, freedom of movement has
been the most pertinent to me. I
admit to finding it baffling that anyone
would see it as anything other than
© Mark Allan
an essential right for British workers.
Like so many of my colleagues, I have
benefitted massively from the right 11
to work throughout the other 27 EU
countries, both with UK ensembles and
“Any Brexit that ends There’s a vibrant cultural exchange between
the UK and other EU countries that is
with groups from the EU.
free movement for facilitated by the freedom of movement. The
close proximity of other EU countries to the UK
“The EU represents by far the largest
proportion of my work. There are many
musicians will cause makes touring viable, even at grassroots level.
Artists who can access other musical
reasons for this. Firstly, it is quick and
easy to travel to our neighbouring
major problems.” communities, cultures and audiences will countries to work, far easier than
have a fuller understanding of where their travelling further afield. It’s not unusual
music works and how to exploit all available to start a week in one country and to
further afield. Grassroots UK artists find their revenue streams. end the week in a completely different
own fanbases and launch their careers by country with yet another ensemble.
supporting touring acts and accessing their Many of the UK’s music venues have This flexibility and ease of employment
more established audiences. international renown due to their diverse is key to many careers including mine.
programming featuring local artists alongside
Freedom of movement in the EU allows artists those from all over the world. In addition to “I feel in the lead up to the general
to explore Europe and identify relevant venues, there are several festivals across election, musicians, and many others,
audiences for their music; it’s not uncommon Europe that provide opportunities for UK acts need to loudly make the case for the
for an artist who is relatively unknown in the at all levels. Allowing UK acts to be visible and benefits of freedom of movement.
UK to have a keen following and established successful throughout Europe strengthens
profile within another European country. the UK’s cultural significance and contributes “Politicians seem to have made this
Restricted access or administratively to incoming tourism. important right a buzz phrase for
burdensome requirements (surrounding both something the country doesn’t want
artists and their goods, merchandise for Many of the MU’s members recall gigging and or need and we must turn this around,
example) – as is already the case for other touring in the days before the European Union, reclaiming freedom of movement as
territories around the world – could easily put and if there is any return to those days then something hugely beneficial for the
an end to UK artists touring EU countries, European touring will become unviable for an country as a whole.”
particularly at grassroots level. This would awful lot of artists.
compound the existing concern as to who ANNEKE SCOTT Horn player.
tomorrow’s headliners are.
The Musician • Winter 2019Musician and producer Bernard
Butler is one of the numerous
musicians speaking out.
“Many musicians
already ‘leave out’
Photo of Bernard Butler: Jesse Wild © MU 2019; © Joanna Dudderidge
Switzerland because
of the hassle of having
to use carnets.”
Before the EU, musicians had to use travel
carnets to show that they could temporarily
move instruments and gear outside the
country. An ATA carnet that covers 70
countries currently costs £325.96 plus a
deposit and is valid for one year. This would be
a prohibitive cost for many musicians, not to More than 100 MPs have signed up to the
mention time consuming as equipment and Union’s pledge, including MP for Bristol
gear would need to be checked at the border. East, Kerry McCarthy (above).
We also know that visas could be a problem.
They can take time and resources to get, and
how much time and how much resources is What can I do to stop Brexit?
not always in our control. For example, If you do not want Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal
‘fast-track’ or premium processing fees for US and you don’t want a No Deal Brexit, you can
visa applications have recently gone up from use this election to vote against Brexit.
12 $1,225 to $1,410.
The MU is affiliated to the Labour Party and we
It is worth noting that many musicians already support its pledges to provide funding for the You can ask the questions on social media, in
‘leave out’ Switzerland when organising a NHS, education and housing among other a letter, email, or in person at an event or if
European tour, because of the hassle of things. We have also worked with the Labour they knock on your door. Let us know what
having to use carnets. Not only will the end of Party to ensure that the manifesto includes they say on Twitter and Instagram @
freedom of movement definitely reduce the commitments on music education for children WeAreTheMU or via press@theMU.org
number of musicians coming to tour in the UK, as well as voting in favour of the Green New
it will also increase costs and admin for our Deal at its Conference. What if Brexit does go ahead?
musicians travelling in Europe. If the Conservatives do win the election, it is
For members who do not want to vote Labour possible that the UK will leave the EU within a
What has the MU been doing on Brexit? but do want to stop Brexit, the other parties matter of weeks. If we leave with a deal, there
The MU has lobbied MPs tirelessly over the are, in some areas, creating a ‘remain alliance’ will be a transition period until the end of 2020
past few years, arguing that freedom of as a tactical voting tool. There are websites during which very little will change. If we leave
movement for musicians is essential. We which can advise on this, although of course without a deal, some things are likely to
have held events in parliament, attended tactical voting is never foolproof. change almost overnight.
Labour and Conservative Party Conferences
and our members have sent thousands of The long and short of it is that if the Although a No Deal Brexit will not be easy at all
postcards to MPs. Conservatives and Brexit party win an for musicians, there are some steps that you
overall majority, then Brexit will happen. can take in advance to avoid some of the
We have worked closely with MPs such as Any other outcome is more likely to lead to issues you are likely to face.
Stephen Doughty, Thangam Debbonaire a second referendum. This is also the • If you are an EU citizen living in the UK you
and Alison McGovern to ask questions in the perfect time to contact the candidates in should apply for settled status. If you have
House of Commons and hold the government your constituency and ask them what their any problems you should contact your MP
to account. More than 100 MPs signed up to plans are for music, as well as Brexit. or your Regional Office.
our ‘free movement for musicians’ pledge. Ask your candidates: • Depending on how much travelling you do
Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, we • Do they support staying in the EU? within the EU, it may be worth applying for an
could not secure the backing of any • If we have to leave, will they support the EU driving licence.
Conservative MPs. Musicians’ Passport?
• Do they commit to supporting musicians,
if they are elected to Parliament?
The Musician • Winter 2019PROFILE
REPORT
Musicians Speak Out Against Brexit
“It is alarming that our UK festival would “Musicians need freedom of movement to
now have real problems bringing artists into survive… No promoter will carry the burden
this country. Many no longer want to come of the extra cost of a work visa, and neither
to the UK because of the difficulty, cost and can the artist. It’s the same for classical
delays with visas, along with the new fear musicians, composers, actors, dancers and
that they will not be welcomed.” all freelancers. Imagine WOMAD or Glasto
PETER GABRIEL Musician, activist and with no new acts, or the entire classical
co-founder of WOMAD (BBC interview). music industry bankrupted by visa costs
as our young musicians have no chance of
“Gigging across Europe remains a key working abroad. Let’s keep the doors open
source of income for so many musicians and for them and remain leaders in our field.”
any bureaucracy that acts as a deterrent to DAME SARAH CONNOLLY CBE Mezzo-
touring is to be fiercely resisted.” soprano (interview with Slipped Disc).
BERNARD BUTLER Musician & producer.
“The music industry contributes £5.2bn
“At the moment we enjoy freedom of to the economy. Brexit represents an
movement. I can move around the continent existential threat to that success unless we
with a guitar and suitcase with very little protect the ability for artists and musicians
obstruction. If we lose this right, the next to travel freely between the UK and the EU.”
logical steps are border checks, carnet MICHAEL DUGHER CEO of UK Music
forms, work permits and heightened (interview with The Independent).
security measures. I have to do all this
outside of Europe, particularly when I “Freedom of movement is just a golden
tour North America. It’s costly and time- ticket, but now that that’s disappearing, 13
consuming. All those extra hours of waiting or it looks like it will, we don’t even know if
• If you are going to be travelling with an around in an airport or having my guitar that option will be available to us.”
instrument that contains rare wood or ivory case emptied on the side of the road, these ANNA PATALONG soprano singer
you should check the CITES implications. are things I could do without.” (interview with Bloomberg).
JOHN SMITH Guitarist and songwriter
Links to all this advice and details on potential (interview with The Guardian). “I don’t see how anyone could genuinely
entry requirements for EU countries can be believe Brexit was going to positively
found in the Advice section of the MU website. “I don’t get involved in politics, but I will impact on their lives. Nobody is going to
We will post regular updates and send emails say one thing: I was born a European and benefit, apart from a few bankers and
to members as appropriate. Government I love being a European.” politicians moving a hedge fund.”
departments have opened hotlines for people ED SHEERAN Singer/songwriter JASON FEENAN Drummer with Derry punk
to call for advice and to report any problems. (interview with NME). trio Touts (interview with The Independent).
Again, you can find details of these on the
Musicians’ Union website.
If Brexit does go ahead, the MU will continue
to fight for a touring visa for performers and “Britain Still Rules The Soundwaves”
their crews which:
• Is affordable and admin-light “Imagine Britain without its music. If it’s “We are about to make a very serious
• Lasts for at least two years hard for us, then it’s impossible for the mistake regarding our giant industry and
• Is multi-entry and includes a single entry and rest of the world. the vast pool of yet undiscovered genius
exit carnet system that lives on this little island.”
• Covers all European Union member states “In this one area, if nowhere else, Britain
• Covers crew and equipment does still rule the waves. The airwaves. Open letter to the Prime Minister (8 October
The cyberwaves. The soundwaves. It is 2019) orchestrated by Bob Geldof and signed
If Brexit does go ahead and you experience of us. It is our culture. by artists including Simon Rattle, John Eliot
problems with touring or travelling, please Gardiner, Howard Goodall, Damon Albarn,
contact your Regional Office and your MP. It is “But Brexit threatens, as it does so much Jarvis Cocker, Brian Eno, Nick Mason, Alan
important that you let us know of any issues else, this vast voice; this huge global McGee, William Orbit, Neil Tennant, Rita
so that we can build up a comprehensive list cultural influencer. Ora, Ed Sheeran and Paul Simon.
of problems to take to government.
The Musician • Winter 2019We Can All Help To
Tackle The Climate Crisis
MU Deputy General Secretary Naomi Pohl on the changes the Union is making
to reduce its environmental impact and why, alongside artists, organisations
and other industry professionals, it has signed up to Music Declares Emergency.
Climate crisis and environmental look like plastic but are actually made from
sustainability are finally climbing the global biodegradable material, derived from
agenda, from governments and large renewable and non-finite raw materials. We
corporate interest groups to individuals are limiting international delegations where
carrying reusable coffee cups. In the music possible, as we appreciate that air travel is a
industry, sustainability is a topic at every big contributor to any organisation’s carbon
meeting we attend, from the UK Music Board footprint – we don’t undertake many overseas
to our own Executive Committee. trips but we need to be sure we only fly when
absolutely necessary. To cut down on
The Union has signed up to Music Declares extensive travelling within the UK, we are also
14 Emergency, a group of artists, music industry trying to use Skype, FaceTime or Microsoft
professionals and organisations who are Teams for meetings.
standing together to declare a climate and
ecological emergency and calling for an Environmental impact
immediate governmental response to protect One area in which we can make quite a
all life on Earth. We also backed Labour’s significant change, with the help of our
Green New Deal motions at its Conference members, is in cutting down on print and
this year. Green policies in the manifestos are gradually moving to digital. As well as reducing
no doubt going to be a big focus, for young our environmental impact, this is something
voters in particular and, alongside Brexit, that may be of benefit to members. For
could be a driver for political change. example, from next year we are reducing the
size of the MU Members’ Handbook. It will still
The Union has made significant progress contain crucial information about the Union’s
internally to reduce its environmental impact. services but the detailed industry advice
We have moved from disposal to recycling, sections will move online. We update the
installed recycling bins throughout our advice that we give according to changes
headquarters for paper, plastics, batteries in technology and developments within the
and toner cartridges, and we are also industry and so we believe our website is a
recycling electronic equipment wherever far better place for this information; printed
possible. In fact, we donated our old PCs to documents can be out of date as soon as
a charity that restores them for individuals they land on your doormat.
or organisations in need.
Our website will be redeveloped and
Our merchandise is also becoming more redesigned next year and we plan to move
environmentally friendly. The latest MU pens to a more personalised version; the website
should promote content based on your area of
work and that’s relevant to you geographically.
“We have installed recycling bins throughout The reduced Members’ Handbook will use less
paper and this means we will be able to
our headquarters and we are also recycling
electronic equipment wherever possible.”
The Musician • Winter 2019PROFILE
REPORT
“Touring will always be a
challenge in terms of carbon
footprint but we will campaign
for more musician-friendly
public transport.”
© Hero Images / Getty Images
15
reduce the size of the new membership packs but the Union will campaign for more Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, the Barbican,
we send out, which are currently in plastic musician-friendly public transport, offering Abbey Road Studios, the BRIT Awards, New
boxes. The 2021 MU Diary will be available on safe storage for musical instruments, for Adventures and Glyndebourne.
request rather than sent to all our 32,000 example. Many of our members already
members. In spring 2020, we will be asking if lift-share, which saves money and the planet. Ultimate responsibility
you wish to receive a 2021 MU Diary. Assuming It is important to remember that, ultimately,
that not all members request a diary, we will Check out your suppliers, business partners the responsibility for tackling the climate crisis
save some trees by making this change too. and clients, and organisations that engage lies with governments, global decision-
you, to see if they have their own makers and major corporations. The issue has
Sustainable merch options environmental policies. Arts Council England’s to be addressed on an international scale and
If you want to improve on the environmental draft 10-year strategy demonstrates a big individual actions won’t solve the problem;
sustainability of your own career as a shift towards this being a key requirement for just 100 companies have been the source of
musician, carry out an audit of your activities organisations that it funds. The charity Julie’s more than 70% of the world’s greenhouse gas
and do some research online. Look at Bicycle is a font of knowledge for anyone emissions since 1988. That said, in the face of
sustainable merchandise options and try to working in music and its website includes a this emergency we can all do our part, and
cut down on plastic and paper wherever list of venues, festivals and event spaces that help in our own small way to safeguard the
possible. Touring will always be a challenge are part of the Creative Green community earth for future generations.
for musicians in terms of carbon footprint (juliesbicycle.com/creativegreen-
certification). Want to get involved? Sign up to Music
Declares Emergency at musicdeclares.net
Creative Green is the only environmental
certification scheme designed specifically
for the creative and cultural industries.
Organisations that have signed up include
The Musician • Winter 2019BBC Music
Introducing Live
In a rapidly transforming The opportunities and challenges facing from A-list celebrities, such as funk legend Nile
today’s independent artists was the core Rodgers, who addressed a packed audience
music industry, events theme of BBC Music Introducing Live, a along with manager and business partner
three-day event at Tobacco Dock in Merck Mercuriadis. The pair’s core message
such as BBC Music Wapping, East London. More than was the value of songs, and the long-term
Introducing Live offer a 15,000 musicians attended, along with
representatives from the music industry,
economic value of intellectual property (IP).
wealth of practical advice including managers, broadcasters, tech “The power is in your hands,” said
companies, manufacturers, educators Mercuriadis, whose management credits
for musicians. and organisations such as the MU, which include Beyoncé, Guns N’ Roses, Elton John
Report by Neil Crossley welcomed visitors to its stand within the and Iron Maiden, and who set up the music
Grade I-listed former warehouse. royalties trust, Hipgnosis Songs. “You create
the magic that makes the world go round.”
Panels at the event, from 31 October to 2
November, offered advice on everything from Support structure
finding a support slot to getting your music Rodgers recounted the story of US songwriter
on the radio. There were also presentations Mars Bonfire, who after receiving a $5,000
16 cheque for one of his first compositions in
1967, went straight out and bought a brand-
new Ford Mustang. As he drove the car at
speed up the freeway, the euphoria of his new
financial freedom and the joy of the open road
© James North
Nile Rodgers (right) and his
manager Merck Mercuriadis
discussed the value of songs and
the importance of solid support.
The Musician • Winter 2019REPORT
Left: Representatives from
BBC Radio offered advice on
how musicians can get their
tracks on the radio. Below: MU
member Anna Neale.
© Jonathan Stewart
sparked a new song, which would become the a creator. Distribution and remuneration are
global hit Born To Be Wild. “Mars never earned
less than $300,000 a year from that one song,”
just getting more robust.” MU In Action
said Rodgers. For up-and-coming artists, the overriding MU PR & Marketing Official
question was how best to proceed in Keith Ames chaired a panel
The founder of Chic acknowledged the such a fast-changing industry. At a Music on night safety for musicians,
importance of support. “Without help around Managers’ Forum (MMF) event – Artists alongside Emily Marlow,
me I would never have made it,” he said. He and Manager Dynamics: Finding The Right co-founder and director at Girl
recounted his early struggles when trying to Manager – musician and performance Gang Leeds, and MU members
break into music. Even with tracks such as Le artist Bishi recounted the challenges artist- Anna Neale, Luisa Santiago 17
Freak on his demos, he recalled, he was being managers such as herself face finding and Zoe Konez. “We all work
consistently rejected. “The record company the time to create while undertaking all night shifts, but keeping safe in
that signed me turned me down 24 times and the managerial tasks necessary to push a rowdy venues, knowing where
signed me on the 25th time,” he said. career forward. “Your entire life is a giant to park, learning how to adapt
spreadsheet – just a giant diary with lots of to life on a tour bus and dealing
Mercuriadis said that the financial community coloured markers in it,” she said. “I have really with ‘space invaders’ is an
now recognises the true economic value of struggled with that but then I’ve just overcome important part of performing
songs. Unlike commodities such as gold and so much. It’s made me so strong.” live,” said Anna. “It was great
oil, songs are not affected by global political to be be able to share some of
events, he said. “If IP is structured in the Money talks my experience and knowledge
right way, then it continues to reward you as Singer-songwriter and producer Laura from the past 20 years.”
Bettinson highlighted the financial
sacrifices of embarking on a career in music MU Recording & Broadcasting
when your friends may be climbing the Official Michael Sweeney sat
corporate ladder and commanding ever- on the Hal Leonard Europe and
more impressive salaries. She also noted UK Music Present Copyright:
how her early perceptions of her career path What You Need To Know
underwent a profound shift. “I entered the panel. “The attendees were
music industry thinking, ‘well, of course I’m taken through a wide range
going to make pop music ’cause I can sing’. It of issues,” he said. “From
wasn’t until my mid-20s, that I was like, ‘well, the essentials of copyright
actually I’m really good at the production ownership and sources of
income to the importance of
having clear agreements in
“Without help around place with collaborators.”
me, I would never
have made it.”
Nile Rodgers
The Musician • Winter 2019“Diversity is absolutely central in terms of More than 15,000
sound and culture, and probably one of musicians attended
the event. Right:
the most important things in my mind.”
Maddy Radcliff, MU
Campaigns and Social
Media Official.
Chris Price, Head of Music for Radio 1 and 1Xtra
thing as well’. I get as much enjoyment out of practical help and support out there, and what
sitting in my studio making beats until 4am the MU can do to back them up.”
as I do standing on stage in the costume and
the lights. There really isn’t a blueprint for The panel addressed the importance
success any more.” of networking. “It boils down to do your
research, be creative in your approach, be
The next generation polite, don’t be creepy, be persistent and
The MU welcomed a range of visitors to its always follow up,” said Maddy. “If you do
stand and Officials participated in a variety manage to get a meeting with the person you
of panels. Campaigns & Social Media Official want to see, always ask if there’s anyone else
Maddy Radcliff spoke on the panel Social they think you should connect with. You can
Inclusion in the Music Business – What Next? build your network really quickly like that – but
Hosted by the UK Music Futures Group, UK it’s astonishing the number of people who
Music’s committee for young people in the don’t follow through.”
industry, the panel focused on the challenges
facing young people who are trying to get into Maddy highlighted the networking
© James North
the UK music industry. sessions and events run by the MU with
MU discounts, and highlighted Shesaid.so,
18 “The UK Music Futures Group has been talking “a fantastic organisation and a great way
a lot about class, culture and the barriers to connect with women across the music
people face entering the industry, issues that industry”. The panel also talked about the
the MU has been working on for a long time,” specific challenges faced by BAME, LGBT+ sell – will be stronger and more successful for
said Maddy. “It was great to get on stage and and neurodiverse people working in the having a diverse and representative group of
talk about those things to young people trying industry. “People in power need to remember people around them.”
to navigate the industry, and discuss the that they – or what they create or produce or
On the radio
Getting Your Music On Radio And What To
Do When It Is was such a popular session
that the doors had to be shut early. Chris
Left: Panellists on the
Price, head of music for Radio 1 and 1Xtra,
Power Of Being An said the route into airplay on Radio 1 was via
Independent Artist In specialist shows such as Radio 1’s Dance Party
Country and Americana With Annie Mac. Price encouraged artists to
panel. Below: Alora, a
resident artist at The
identify and target the specialist show that
Roundhouse, London. best fits their music. He also advised artists
to ask themselves honestly ‘are you shaping
or shifting culture?’. “If so, we’ll be more
interested in your work,” he said. “Diversity
is absolutely central in terms of sound
and culture, and probably one of the most
important things in my mind.”
Harrison Stock, assistant producer on
Radio 1’s Future Sounds, spoke about the
station’s weekly two-hour meeting, when 11
people select the seven tracks that will be
© Jonathan Stewart
added to the Radio 1 playlist. “It’s a really big
deal and we don’t take it lightly,” he said. “It’s
amazing how certain tracks just jump out. It’s
got to grab us.”
The Musician • Winter 2019REPORT
management and PR, to social media,
arranging live shows and releasing the music.
“That is a real draw on your time that takes
you away from the creativity,” said Lara Baker,
director of business development for the
UK and Ireland for song rights management
platform Songtrust. “As you develop your
career, you need to know when to add people
and to start building a team.”
Keychange The panel highlighted the power of saying 19
Diversity and equality were ‘no’ to label or management deals, and the
key issues throughout the fact that signing the wrong deal could be a
The panel highlighted the need for artists event, as reflected in PRS significant setback in an artist’s career. Dylan
to “build a world around them”, with strong Foundation’s panel, Gender Myerscough-Harris, UK A&R for Peermusic,
photos, artwork, video and ideally a team Equality In The Music Industry said there is currently a “unique mindset”
made up of management, PR and a plugger. Through Collaboration And applied to musicians and their music, a “quick
When asked if a record plugger is vital to Activism. A four-year project fix” notion that musicians should attain
getting your music on radio, Price said: “It’s to make the music industry success within six months. You wouldn’t
not essential but it helps.” more equal was recently expect to go into any other industry and be
announced by Keychange, CEO within six months, he said, and the reality
The panel highlighted Scottish singer- PRS for Music Foundation’s is that building a solid career will take a great
songwriter and acoustic guitarist Gerry pioneering initiative that deal longer.
Cinnamon as an artist who has built his encourages festivals and
fanbase, story and narrative without a plugger music organisations to achieve “There’s a phrase from Nashville, that it’s a
and with “no manager, no marketing or label”. a 50:50 gender balance by 10-year town, meaning that it takes 10 years
2022. Project manager Maxie to get to a position in your career that you’re
Deal or no deal Gedge said Keychange would happy with. That’s true for music in general...
The issue of whether artists should attempt involve 74 participants every You often need to take a step back, focus on
to sign with a label was a prevailing topic year for the next three years yourself and think, ‘okay, I may only have £500
throughout the event. “It’s all about what travelling around 12 countries for my band right now but I love the music
they can offer that you can’t do yourself,” to collaborate and take part we’re making and I’m going to continue doing
said Wigan singer-songwriter Robbie in panels and workshops. it’. You may get incremental growth over three
Cavanagh, a panellist on The Power Of “I think, generally, there years but you are the driving force. That’s so
Being An Independent Artist In Country And is a will for change – for important… The core of your music has to
Americana. He noted that much of what greater diversity within the come from you and you believing in it.”
labels offer can be achieved by the artist. music industry in all our
organisations. Keychange
The downside, of course, is that the artist gives all kinds of music
has to do “everything, all the time”, from organisations a chance to
practically make that change.”
The Musician • Winter 2019You can also read
