LET THE MUSIC PLAY: SAVE OUR SUMMER - JANUARY 2021 - UK Music
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LET THE MUSIC PLAY:
SAVE OUR SUMMER
JANUARY 2021
Queen Zee at Download 2019 | Georgia Penny ©
contents
foreword
Chief Executive | Jamie Njoku-Goodwin 4
executive summary 6
importance of live music 9
impact of COVID-19 and challenges faced by live music events 14
recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet 17
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Health Risks 18
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Economic Risks 24
conclusion 30
acknowledgements 31
UK Music is the umbrella body representing the collective interests of the UK’s
music industry, from songwriters and composers to artists and musicians, studio
producers, professional recording studios, music managers, music publishers, major
and independent record labels, music licensing companies and the live music sector. UK
Music exists to represent the UK’s music sector, to drive economic growth and promote
the benefits of music to British society
foreword
Chief Executive | Jamie Njoku-Goodwin
Live music is the beating heart of therefore it is in the national interest
the UK music industry. It generates for the sector to be supported and
billions of pounds for the economy helped back to normal. To that end,
every year, supports thousands of we put forward a clear plan for
jobs across the country, and draws recovery: what we need to do to get
millions of music tourists to all four the live music sector back up on its
corners of the UK. feet again in 2021.
In addition to the economic impact, Before the vaccine is fully rolled out,
it also has huge social and cultural there will remain a public health
benefits. The UK’s vibrant live risk. Therefore, one of our main
music scene has given us a global tasks as an industry has been to do
reputation, and the music industry everything we can to reduce the risk
as a whole was set to be one of the of transmission in our environments
British success stories of the 2020s. and make event spaces as safe
COVID-19 has put much of that as they can possibly be. We are
at risk. The pandemic has had a working with government to develop
devasting impact across our industry, guidance for how to hold events
and live music has been one of the safely, and engaging with testing
biggest casualties. However, as we pilots to make sure infections are
argue in this report, the devastation not brought into live music events.
caused by COVID-19 does not have We looking at new ventilation and
to be permanent. We were a growing air purification systems that would
and thriving industry before the dramatically reduce the risk of
pandemic hit, and with the right transmission. And we are proposing
support we can be that successful an enhancement to Hands, Face,
and self-reliant industry again. Space, which puts responsibility for
making environments safe onto
In this report, UK Music highlights
venues rather than individuals.
the vital role live music plays in our
communities and lays out the stark This work is not just important for
challenges it has faced over the tackling the risks from COVID-19 – it
course of the pandemic. We argue is a blueprint for how the live events
that the music industry will have a sector can operate safely and viably
key role to play in the post-pandemic through future epidemics too. In our
economic and cultural recovery, and increasingly globalised world, we
4
cannot assume that pandemics are a speak openly about the prospect of
once-in-a-century phenomenon. We returning to normal by the spring,
don’t know when the next pandemic and the combination of vaccines and
will strike, but as an industry we are rapid testing gives hope that we will
determined to be ready for it when be in a position to hold large-scale
it does, and be one of the safest events by the middle of this year.
environments for social contact. Summer might seem a long way off,
Getting our sector back on its feet especially when we are in the midst
is not just about mitigating the of a second wave of Covid-19. But we
public health risk. COVID-19 has had operate to long lead times as a sector
devastating economic consequences and now is when the key decisions
too, with huge ramifications on about the summer music season are
cost, confidence and certainty. An being taken.
indicative date for restart and a When the time for recovery comes,
government insurance scheme are the music industry can play a key
vital – without them, many major role in the post-pandemic economic
festivals will not have the confidence and cultural revival. But if the right
or the preparation time to go support and reassurance is not put in
ahead this year. Policies like the place for event organisers, artists and
business rates relief and the VAT rate venues now, then there is a serious
reduction on tickets have been very risk that much of the summer live
welcome this year, and should be music season will be cancelled.
extended for their full benefit to be
Countries like Germany and Austria
realised. And if we are not allowed to
have taken action to protect their
operate viably as sector, then there
events industries and ensure they are
will be no option for Government but
ready to help drive their recoveries
to extend the Cultural Recovery Fund
– it’s vital that the UK does the same
and continue the various support
and is not left behind. This report
schemes like furlough and SEISS.
makes the case for action from
While this pandemic is still raging Government now, and sets out a
and causing devastation to lives blueprint for how we can Save Our
and livelihoods today, the rollout Summer.
of the vaccine means there is light
at the end of the tunnel. Ministers
5
executive summary
Importance of live music Impact of COVID-19 and an existential crisis for the live sector
and UK music festivals – the 2020
Live music is a vital part of the UK’s challenges faced by live season was wiped out, and there is
£5.8 billion music industry – music music events a real threat that the vast majority
tourism alone contributed £4.7
Pandemic restrictions have of the 2021 season will not happen
billion to the UK economy in 2019.1
significantly impacted the live either.
According to UK Music’s Music By
Numbers 20202 report live music music sector. Bans on mass events
contributed £1.3 billion directly to and the national lockdown meant Recovery – how to get the
the economy in 2019.The economic that the 2020 festival season was sector back on its feet
benefits of live music are spread wiped out. This has resulted in a
The best way to support and protect
across the whole of the UK and 90.2% drop in revenue for festivals
the live music sector is to get it back
they are vital to supporting local in 2020, with potentially 50%
on its feet and enable it to start
economies and regional growth. Live redundancies in the workforce by the
generating income again. The focus
music attendance grew in 2019 and end of the year.3 Grassroots Music
must therefore be on how we get
given jobs in the cultural and creative Venues (GMVs) have seen a 75.2%
live performances happening again
industries will be particularly resilient fall in income with redundancies
at capacity. This means we must first
to automation, the long-term of 60.4% of the workforce being
demonstrate that we can effectively
employment prospects for the sector looked at.4 The impact has been
manage the health risk by taking
before COVID-19 hit looked bright. felt across the industry – up to
necessary measures to reduce the
The UK live music scene also brings 80% of music creators’ income will
risk of transmission at live music
significant social and health and have been lost in 2020 and three
events, and secondly find a way to
wellbeing benefits and generates quarters of musicians may leave the
operate in the current landscape in a
huge soft power advantages. UK sector. The prospects of holding
way that is financially viable.
live music should be promoted and live events in 2021 are extremely
unclear. Social distancing, capacity Until a vaccine is fully rolled out,
championed by Government in
limits, and restrictions under the measures must be taken to manage
normal times, and protected and
tiered systems all mean that it is an the public health risk. The music
supported during this pandemic.
immense challenge to hold events in industry has therefore been looking
an economically viable way. There is at all options to reduce the risk of
no certainty about when restrictions transmission:
might end and so there is little • We are working closely with
confidence to plan and organise government to develop guidance
major events. COVID-19 has created and clear protocols to enable live
1
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020
2
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020
3
AIF figures https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/6583/html/
4
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf p. 6
6
music events to return safely, and on multiple options to manage • Targeted financial support.
will continue this collaboration as a the public health risk. However,
• Extension to the VAT rate
priority. there is no clear mechanism for
reduction on tickets.
validating these various approaches
• UK Music is committed to engaging
with Government. We therefore • Rollover of the paid 2020 Local
with the Moonshot programme and
recommend establishing a taskforce Authority license fees
using rapid testing to eventually
that can advise, evaluate and
bring back full capacity events. • Extension to business rates relief.
validate the various innovations
This requires proof of concept,
we are looking at implementing.
conducting testing pilots with
This has been very effective for Conclusion
social distancing, then gradually
the sports sector, with the Sports Live music plays a key role in the
building up to full capacity.
Technology and Innovation Group. social, economic and cultural life
• We are looking at and piloting We recommend Government does of the UK. The sector has faced
improved ventilation and other the same for the live performing arts unprecedented challenges during
pathogen reduction systems. There sector. the pandemic, but there is a route
are a number of ventilation and air We are confident that through for live music to return to delivering
purification systems on the market partnership with Government and the huge benefits for our country
that reduce the risk of transmission the private sector we can effectively that it has consistently generated
in inside spaces, but unless they manage the public health risks in the past. The music industry
are recognised or validated by at festivals and live music events is committed to working with
Government then there is no and make them safe places to Government and the private sector
incentive for industry to invest in be. However, there will remain to get the live sector back up on its
them. significant challenges for the industry feet – by taking necessary measures
as it seeks to get itself up onto its to reduce the risk of transmission,
• For indoor events, the industry is
own feet. To support the live sector, and securing the right support from
also proposing an enhancement to
UK Music has a set of key asks of Government to enable festivals to
the Hands, Face, Space approach:
Government: return in an economically viable way.
Test, Clean, Prevent, which
switches the management of the With the right support, live music and
• An indicative date for full capacity the wider music industry can be at
risk of COVID-19 from individuals restart.
onto venues which already have the the forefront of the post-pandemic
expertise. • A Government-backed economic and cultural revival.
reinsurance scheme.
As an industry, we are working
7
Fumi Kaneko as Princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty 2019 | The Royal Ballet, ROH - Helen Maybanks ©
8importance of live music
Live music plays a vital role in the deals with them, will often discover a 6% increase in attendees with 5.2
UK’s £5.8 billion music industry – unsigned talent at live events such as million people in 2019, up from 4.9
music tourism alone generated festivals or open mic nights. million in 2018. Revenues will vary
£4.7 billion in spending for the UK Music’s recently released Music By from one event to another, but
UK economy in 2019 and live Numbers 2020 report demonstrates typically festivals with an attendance
performance forms an important the economic value of the UK of 80-100,000 can generate in the
part of the wider music ecosystem. music industry, and specifically the region of £8-12 million per day, or
Artists and musicians use live music strength of our live music sector around £25-30 million per event per
to engage fans, build their fan base when operating at full capacity pre- weekend in revenue*.9
and make commercial sales. They pandemic. In 2019 alone, music The rapid growth rate of the creative
also provide significant employment added £5.8 billion GVA to the UK’s industries has been a consistent
opportunities to skilled technical economy (up 11% from 2018), trend in recent years.10 The UK music
staff such as sound and lighting employed almost 200,000 people industry employs comparatively more
engineers. A gig, arena or festival (up 3%) and generated £2.9 billion people than other sectors which are
performance will engage managers, in export revenue (up 9%). The GVA
5
perceived as strategically important,
promoters, marketers, and growth figure is more than triple the for example fishing and steel-making:
organisers, circulating employment GVA growth across the UK economy 200,000 employees vs. 12,000 and
opportunities and revenue in 2019 (3.3%) – showing that the 32,000, respectively.11 Furthermore,
throughout the supply chain. It also music industry has the potential to as the Royal Society of Arts has
will generate royalties down the be a key growth industry for our noted, jobs in the cultural and
line, providing a source of income to country in the 2020s. According to
6
creative industries will be particularly
creators including composers and UK Music’s Music By Numbers 2020 7
resilient to automation – meaning
publishers. This revenue is significant report live music contributed £1.3 that the long-term employment
for all creators, whether those on billion directly to the economy in prospects for the industry look
stage or the ones who wrote or 2019. bright.12 The music industry is a
co-wrote the music, particularly as vibrant and dynamic sector with
The report also revealed that live
generated by licensing. This activity hugely positive long-term prospects
music attendance showed a strong
then generates revenue for the – so strategic support would not just
increase in 2019, up by 11.1% to
Government through direct and benefit the music industry as it looks
12.6 million in 2019, from 11.2
indirect forms of taxation. Label
million in 2018.8 In total these visitors to recover from COVID-19, it would
A&R, the part of record companies also benefit the wider economy.
were worth £4.7 billion to the UK
who scout and source new and
economy, and supported 45,633
emerging artists to sign record
jobs. Within the sector festivals saw
5
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020
6
https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/grossvalueaddedgva/timeseries/abml/pn2
7
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020/
8
https://www.ukmusic.org/assets/general/Music_By_Numbers_2020_Report.pdf
9
* revenues includes ticket price and onsite spend, this does not include spend offsite. UK Music estimates 2020.
10
https://www.sounddiplomacy.com/our-insights/music-tourism-white-paper
https://www.creativeindustriesfederation.com/publications/growing-uks-creative-industries
11
https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/920679/UK_Sea_Fisheries_Statistics_2019_-_access_checked-002.pdf
http://researchbriefings.files.parliament.uk/documents/CBP-7317/CBP-7317.pdf
12
https://www.thersa.org/reports/work-automation-covid
9importance of live music
As well as contributing to national a strategically vital sector, but also
economic growth, live music also mobilise a whole range of economic
a 110,000 capacity plays a key role in supporting local activity.
economies too. The role that live music could play
festival can be worth
Festivals and music venues are in reopening the UK post-COVID-19
over £27 million to a intrinsically linked to supply chain is emphasised by the broad
local area businesses in their local areas geographical spread of the sector
including technical freelancers, Venues and festivals of varying
catering providers and service scales such as the Manchester
suppliers (for example security). Arena in the North West, Sneaky
According to the Association of Pete’s in Scotland and Glastonbury
Independent Festivals (AIF) a 5,000 in the South West are pillars of our
capacity festival is worth £1.1 million culturally rich live music scene and
to the local area, while a 110,000 showcase an incredible variety of
capacity festival can be worth over musical genres.
£27 million.13 Glastonbury generates
Our Music By Numbers report
over £100 million into the economy
highlights the rapid growth of music
of South West England each time it
tourism outside of London – for
takes place and music festivals as a
instance, the West Midlands saw an
whole employ over 85,000 people
increase of 19% in music tourists
directly.14
from 2018.17 The table on the next
Analysis has showed that for every page highlights the importance of
£10 spent on a ticket for a live music live music to each region and nation
event, £17 goes back into the local of the UK.18
economy, driving business for local
transport, hospitality outlets and
retailers.15 One Ed Sheeran gig in
2019 was worth £9 million to the
local economy of Ipswich.16
Given this synergy, implementing
a plan for the swift and safe return
of live music would not only boost
13
Updated Optimy figures, AIF DCMS Select Committee Submission on Future of Festivals
14
http://kilimanjarolive.co.uk/news/let-the-music-play/
15
http://data.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/committeeevidence.svc/evidencedocument/digital-culture-media-and-sport-committee/live-music/oral/91709.pdf p.22
16
https://www.ipswichstar.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-ipswich-concerts-economic-impact-2883010
17
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020 p. 26
18
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020
10Number of music Music Tourist
Nation/Region Jobs Supported
Tourists Spend
East Midlands 516,000 £208 million 2,106
East of England 596,000 £212 million 2,545
London 4.1 million £1.5 billion 10,697
South East 1 million £553 million 5,371
South West 1 million £528 million 6,402
North East 242,000 £60 million 662
North West 1.5 million £477 million 4,976
Northern Ireland 234,000 £81 million 901
Scotland 1.3 million £453 million 4,757
Wales 440,000 £143 million 1,843
West Midlands 877,000 £252 million 2,453
Yorkshire and the Humber 754,000 £264 million 2,918
UK Music, Music By Numbers 2020
for every £10 spent on
a ticket for a live music
event, £17 goes back into
the local economy
11importance of live music
In cultural terms music has an endorsing the UK live scene.21 and wellbeing of audiences and its
invaluable place in our society, However, the value of music goes absence in 2020 is felt by those who
providing an immense source of far beyond all the pound signs and are responsive to such treatments.
support for people in what has been the piles of economic data. Music Live music makes an enormous
an exceptionally trying year. has a huge impact on our health and economic, social and cultural
The UK has a passion for music that wellbeing. contribution and is key to
supports its world class commercial A study published in 2017 in the our country’s future. UK live
music sector. UK acts made up 5 American Journal of Hospice and music should be promoted and
of the biggest 20 global stadium Palliative Medicine revealed 96% championed by Government in
tours in 2019, the UK has the busiest of patients in a controlled study normal times and protected and
music venue in the world in the O2 had positive responses to music supported during this pandemic.
and in Glastonbury has the largest therapy.22 Mental health charity
greenfield festival in the world.19 MIND has also advocated research
The UK has been placed second in that revealed the levels of dopamine
the world for soft power. This role were up 9% when participant
has been supported by its iconic volunteers listened to music.23
music scene, which shows an idea of Music experiences can be supported
the UK and its values to the world through social prescribing with live
that has proven to be enduringly music providing a key role here.
popular.20 The live sector and touring Patients with long-term conditions
in particular has been a significant who have been treated in this way
contributor to the soft power of report to feel less isolated, attend
the United Kingdom. It directly 47% fewer hospital appointments
encourages people to visit the UK and made 38% fewer visits to A&E.24
enjoy our culture and spend money
Based on arts participation rates in
while here.
England, the Government estimates
The global importance of the UK that the total annual NHS cost
music industry and our live sector savings due to reductions in GP visits
was underscored by the worldwide is £168.8 million.25
response to UK Music’s Let the
Live music attendance can have
Music Play campaign, with globally
a profound impact on the health
renowned artists including Cher
19
https://www.pollstar.com/article/the-year-end-top-tours-pop-tops-record-breaking-year-143014
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-44697302
20
https://softpower30.com/
21
https://www.ukmusic.org/policy/let-the-music-play/
22
https://www.medpagetoday.com/resource-centers/pain-management/music-therapy-improves-symptoms-and-behaviors-palliative-care-patients/1852
23
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-12135590
24
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/social-prescribing-new-national-academy-set-up
25
https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmcumeds/734/73407.htm#footnote-122
12Dele Sosimi performong at Jazz Cafe | Justin de Souza ©
13impact of COVID-19 and challenges
faced by live music events
The decision on 16 March 2020 to economically viable events but this Tier 1 there are restrictive capacity
withdraw emergency worker support Stage has yet to be met. Pilots of limits for indoor and outdoor events.
from mass gatherings and introduce concerts with social distancing have At Tier 2 people are not allowed to
social distancing restrictions to demonstrated that it is not financially socialise indoors outside of their
control the COVID-19 pandemic viable for the vast majority of venues household or bubble, disincentivising
across England made it illegal to put to put on shows with profits not the attraction of live events. The
on live music events, be it outdoor exceeding operating costs.27 “substantial meal” condition in
festivals or indoor concerts. The fact that is has been near connection to consumption alcohol
In May the Government placed live impossible for any financially viable also initially raised concern but this
music and related events at step 3 music events to take place in 2020 is has subsequently been resolved.
in its COVID-19 recovery plan for also in part due to the second wave Under the highest tier, Tier 3, all
England, postponing the possibility of the pandemic which called for indoor entertainment must close
of any relaxations until at least 4 July renewed restrictions due to a rise with large outdoor events also
and effectively cancelling what was in transmissions. This includes the suffering a similar fate.
left of the traditional summer festival introduction on 14 September of the
season for 2020 in the process. “rule of six” restricting the number
On 25 June the Culture Secretary of people gathering, followed on
Oliver Dowden introduced a five- 24 September by the 10pm curfew
stage roadmap to return to live limiting the time venues could be
performances in England. A route open.
back to live performances was of On 14 October a new three-tier
course welcome, but without solid system was introduced to manage
dates attached to it there was no regional and local disparities in
certainty for the sector.26 For a sector infection rates before a second
that depends on long-term planning month-long lockdown was
and lead in times the absence of set introduced in early November in
dates is an impediment to putting on England.
events. The Tiers system, which was
It is only at Stage 5 (performances strengthened following the
allowed outdoors with fuller November lockdown, presents
audiences indoors) of the roadmap further challenges for putting on
when it may be possible to put on live events. Even at the lower risk
26
Unless there are local restrictions outdoor performances with social distancing were allowed from 11 July yet stage 4 of the roadmap (performances allowed indoors and
outdoors but with a limited distanced outdoors audience) was delayed until 15 August.
27
https://www.itv.com/news/london/2020-07-29/the-clapham-grand-pilot-concert-does-not-provide-blueprint-for-the-live-music-industry
14In Northern Ireland, Scotland 24% capacity in Tier 1 and 12%
• Festivals have faced severe
and Wales, a similar process has capacity in Tier 2.33
problems as a result of the
played out with periodic national
COVID-19 pandemic with the
lockdowns alternating with graded • The Cliff Edge report found that
closure of their main window
restrictions, (Alert Levels in Wales, 76% of live music employees were
of operation from March to
Local Protection Levels in Scotland, supported by the Coronavirus Job
September. Over 90% of music
though Northern Ireland has Retention Scheme as of 31 August
festivals scheduled for 2020
operated as a unit). These restrictions 2020. Technical supply companies
have had to be cancelled, with an
are continually being revised in have seen revenue drop by 95%.34
average non-refundable cost of
response to the changing situation,
£375,000 and are forecasting 50%
however they all have placed severe • According to a survey by the
redundancies in the workforce by
restrictions on the performance Musicians’ Union, 70% of musicians
the end of 2020.30
of live music, where it has been are undertaking less than a quarter
allowed at all, making most music of their usual work and 71%
• The Music Venue Trust state
performances uneconomical.28 are either actively considering
that COVID-19 restrictions have
The following statistics further slashed capacities by 75% at leaving the sector or are unsure of
underline the existential crisis that Grassroots Music Venues (GMVs), whether they will continue.35
COVID-19 restrictions have placed cutting trading hours by 50 to
on live music, festivals and the 75%, limited both performances
associated ecosystem: and performers, and introduced
• UK Music’s Music By Numbers significant additional costs
2020 report concluded that up to on venues to present live
85% of live revenue will be lost in events under severely limited
2020, revenues have been close conditions.31
to zero since March. According
to a UK Music survey, 65% of • GMVs have seen a 75.1% revenue
music creators’ income will be drop and are anticipating over 60%
lost in 2020, rising to over 80% redundancies among staff.32
for those most dependent on live
performance and recording studio • Under existing the existing Tier
work.29 system in England Grassroots
Music Venues are operating at
28
https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2020-12/coronavirus-control-plan-alert-levels-in-wales.pdf
https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-protection-levels/ | https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/coronavirus
29
https://www.ukmusic.org/research/music-by-numbers-2020
30
AIF figures https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/6583/html/
31
http://musicvenuetrust.com/2020/09/venues-are-viable/
32
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
33
Music Venue Trust 2020
34
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
35
https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/COVID/take-action-pandemic
15Duke Dumont at Creamfields UK 2019 | Anthony Mooney ©
16recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet
The Government has stated that
the best way to support the
sector, mitigate this damage and
support recovery is for live musical
performances to resume.36 The
longer the sector is closed, the
greater the economic damage
and the risk of a talent exodus
from the industry. The focus must
therefore be on how we can get live
performance up and running again.
There are two risks that need to be
mitigated for this to happen: the
public health risk from COVID-19
and the economic jeopardy of the
restrictions in place - this is both the
short-term economics of putting on
COVID-19-compliant gigs and the
long-term challenges of ensuring a
benign environment for businesses
to reopen successfully allowing live
music events to resume their vital
role in the UK economy.
The task for the music industry is
therefore to first demonstrate that
we can effectively manage the health
risk by taking necessary measures
to reduce the risk of transmission at
live music events, and secondly to
find a way to operate in the current
landscape in a way that is financially
viable.
36
Q 109 https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/1049/pdf/
17recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Health Risks
Until a vaccine is fully rolled out, on the market that reduce the staging live events in the current
measures must be taken to manage risk of transmission by improving context.37 We continue to work with
the public health risk. The music airflows, but unless they are Government to develop and update
industry has therefore been looking recognised or validated by this guidance as a priority.
at all options to reduce the risk of Government then there is no This ongoing work has allowed a
transmission. Our ongoing work on incentive for industry to invest in limited number of festivals and live
mitigating the risk of COVID-19 in them. events to restart.38 However, the vast
music spaces rests on three pillars: majority remain unable to restart
A. Guidance. Guidance and with festivals and venues still
We are working closely with The four nations of the United deemed not safe enough to remain
Government to develop guidance Kingdom each have their own open as restrictions have tightened,
and clear protocols to enable live rules and restrictions covering live for example during the November
music events to return safely, and performances and festivals and these 2020 lockdown, more work is
will continue this collaboration as are regularly updated with regional needed. From a health perspective,
a priority. variations. The current restrictions ensuring that all individuals comply
B. Testing. are defined by the Hands, Face, with HFS is difficult and from an
We are committed to engaging Space (HFS) approach. This requires economic perspective it prevents
with the Moonshot programme regular handwashing, wearing of most festivals from reaching the
and using rapid testing to face coverings and maintaining a two capacity they need to be profitable.
eventually bring back full capacity metre distance from non-household The ebb and flow of restrictions has
crowds. This requires proof of members. made it impossible for most festivals
concept, conducting testing Engagement with Ministers and to go ahead in 2020. They require
pilots with social distancing, Officials through roundtables and long lead ins, and event organisers
then gradually building up to full workshops has produced useful have not had the confidence under
capacity. work on guidance to comply with HFS that they would be able to go
this. For example, this has included ahead.
C. Ventilation & pathogen updating the Purple Guide, and While this has allowed some events
reduction systems. developing guidance from all four to go ahead the vast majority have
We are looking at improved UK Governments on restarting not. According to the AIF, 90% of
ventilation and other pathogen performing arts to help festivals and festivals in 2020 were cancelled.39
reduction systems. There are a other live music events to establish The Cliff Edge Report found that only
number of ventilation systems on high level planning considerations 20% of pre-pandemic income has
the market that reduce the which must be put in place when been secured.40
37
https://www.ukmusic.org/assets/general/music-festivals-COVID-supplementary-guidance-v1-13th-october-2020.pdf
https://gov.wales/rehearsing-performing-and-taking-part-performing-arts-guidance-phased-return-html
https://www.gov.scot/publications/coronavirus-COVID-guidance-for-the-performing-arts-and-venues-sector/
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-COVID/performing-arts
https://www.thepurpleguide.co.uk/
38
https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/social-distanced-music-festival-intl-scli-gbr/index.html
https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/ginburne-park-pop-up-socially-distant-festival-review_uk_5f1603a6c5b651977c053b08?guccounter=1&guce_
referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvLnVrLw&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFCagMEgeLOAXN3M6Ch6-bsdErV524kzVtq85w9ItCCIeLUWnYlfLylWQZCaWu1avroec6c3a_
O3M1Rrg3Bui7jrL3jfHBEQamnm0F06ztiqFmh8ON861W7Y1ALapUHhsxhazhc4FzJPHwIwMHJKDkJNcpkvrAO1rttUerbElbxW
39
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
40
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
18According to one study, festivals forcing asymptomatic carriers to take The MVT have done preliminary work
have furloughed 75.5% of staff, a test, alerting them to the fact they on a possible app-based solution
GMVs 70.5% and larger venues COVID-19 positive and allowing them where an individual could use their ID
78.8%.41 Even in Tiers 1 and 2 in to self-isolate. to create a profile (AI approved), and
England, which represent the most The safety focused members of the then store event tickets and their last
liberal controls in the UK as of Production Services Association COVID-19 result against their profile.
December 2020 Grassroots Music (PSA) have produced “quarantine This test would be conducted one to
Venues are operating at 24% capacity protocols” to protect staff and two hours prior to entry at a health
in Tier 1 and 12% capacity in Tier 2. freelancers. For the audience there centre near the event site.
To financially preserve the future of are a number of routes that could While we appreciate this cannot
these events and festivals through be followed. “Festival Republic’s be introduced overnight, allowing
the pandemic and to better protect Melvin Benn is continuing to develop more UK-based pilots for fully tested
public health, we would suggest work on his “Full Capacity Plan” events could be a game changer for
enhanced health approaches and conducting pilots of pre-event enabling the early return of festivals
are used to apply to non-socially testing in Estonia – if successful, this with reduced COVID-19 restrictions.
distanced events. However, it could provide a blueprint for how to UK Music is committed to engaging
is critical that innovations and safely conduct full capacity events with the Government’s Moonshot
suggestions made by industry to here in the UK.43 programme and using rapid testing
make this possible have an impact on The #WeMakeEvents campaign have to eventually bring back full
Government guidance where their proposed a pilot event under Restart capacity events. This requires proof
efficacy can be demonstrated. Live using loop-mediated isothermal of concept by conducting testing
amplification tests (that have been pilots with social distancing, then
Testing labelled “highly effective” by NHS gradually building up to full capacity.
The Health Secretary Matt Hancock Trusts) to screen customers on site Trivandi, one of the global leaders in
has repeatedly made clear that large but before entry to allow for a non- the delivery and operation of major
scale testing is a key part of the socially distanced event.44 They have events and venues, has been working
Government’s COVID-19 strategy.42 worked closely with North Greenwich closely with the Government to
To require testing before entering Safety Advisory Group and have put develop this work. The music
a festival or venue could in the forward a proposal for a pilot 2,500 industry is engaging with this work,
long-term allow restrictions to be person event. We would hope the and is committed to doing whatever
relaxed inside venues and festivals, Department of Health and Social is necessary to make it a success.
as well as support the Government’s Care (DHSC) will strongly consider
overarching COVID-19 strategy by approving and supporting this pilot.
41
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
42
https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2020-12-02/debates/FE328933-735C-48E9-9BF0-ED692E9CF8C4/CoronavirusVaccine?highlight=mass%20testing#contribution-
468B52F8-92D9-4166-9E45-51A696A8B53D
https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2020-11-17/debates/67DE24F4-8F99-4229-B6CE-0A3F739C2FE3/Covid-19TestingPilotInLiverpool?highlight=mass%20
testing#contribution-03D78CE3-EC8C-42F1-8338-BE0387C7CAA7
https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2020-11-17/debates/789ABA7D-9452-4771-847A-24BDC64D8F4C/TopicalQuestions?highlight=mass%20testing#contribution-
22CFD8EA-29BD-4ADF-B36E-344BB00E0196
43
https://accessaa.co.uk/festival-republic-md-announces-plan-to-use-events-to-incentivise-testing/ | https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/819/pdf/
44
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/clinical-evaluation-confirms-accuracy-of-lamp-test
19recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Health Risks
Ventilation & pathogen however, there is no process for For Grassroots Music Venues for
officially recognising the impact example, the MVT have drawn
reduction systems they have on reducing the risk of together a Test, Clean, Prevent
The return of indoor music is critical transmission in indoor spaces. Unless approach.
to the sector as a whole. The sector is these innovations are recognised or i. Test.
actively working to look at innovative validated by Government then there Exploit rapid testing to test
protective solutions. is no incentive for industry to invest people before they enter a venue
The MVT is actively involved with in them. or festival.
trialling the use of UVGI/UVG systems The industry is keen to further ii. Clean.
in pilot projects. These systems use develop a dialogue with DHSC (and If an infected person were to
UV light to deactivate airborne viral devolved Health Departments) and make it through the testing
pathogens by drawing air from a there have been productive trials system, cleanliness systems can
room and passing it under a UV light. involving DCMS and venues on other help prevent the spread of the
While seemingly novel technology, issues, such as the live audience trials pathogen combined with vigorous
their use is backed by medical at the London Palladium. ventilation.
science. For instance, UVG systems
Similar pilots could trial this iii. Prevent.
are recommended by the Centers
technology and if successful, Use preventative anti-viral
for Disease Control and Prevention
Government could provide a form technology to halt surface
(CDC) in the USA as part of
of recognition that would enable transmission including anti-viral
preventing the spread of COVID-19 in
venues (and other indoor spaces, like wipes and surfaces.
an office.45
those in the hospitality sector) to Global evidence from similar efforts
UK Music has also been in discussion open and operate safely without the are positive. It should be noted that
with companies like CleanAir restrictions they see today. the German Restart-19 initiative
Spaces and BioTech Group, which is already producing results that
As they are approved, and
use state-of-the-art air and surface indicate that if hygiene concepts are
Government certified, the sector
purification technology to reduce adhered to at live events impacts on
would look to draw them together to
the risk of COVID-19 transmission by the pandemic are low to very low.46
produce economically viable festivals
continuously filtering and cleaning
and events. There are a variety of Much of the groundwork has
the air and surfaces in an indoor
ways this could be done depending already been put in place but needs
environment. There is growing
on the venue and space, as different Government recognition for the next
scientific evidence backing these
spaces face differing COVID-19 risks. stage.
types of systems and verifying the
effect they have on transmission;
45
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/office-buildings.html
46
https://www.iq-mag.net/2020/10/restart-19-results-events-could-take-place-pandemic/#.X8TzoWj7Q2w
20The development of a variety venues and festivals certainty among the safest environments to
of potentially effective vaccines that it is possible for them to carry out social contact, and the
including the Modena, BioNtech/ operate safely and profitably under various technologies and innovations
Pfizer and Oxford vaccine is excellent COVID-19. This would give them we are exploring will help deliver
news.47 However, we would urge the the business confidence to invest that.
Government to continue to engage in this technology while providing As an industry, we are working
with the industry on enhanced an opportunity for businesses and on multiple options to manage
measures and guidance that could freelancers to secure their future in the public health risk. However,
allow safe non-socially distanced the industry. We do not know how there is no clear mechanism for
performances to resume as soon as long the vaccine rollout will take, validating these various approaches
possible, and to certify any methods and with many younger people who with Government. We therefore
found to be effective. often make venues and festivals recommend establishing a
We are keen to work as closely as viable being among the last to be taskforce that can advise,
possible with DHSC and the devolved inoculated, it is imperative we find an evaluate and validate the various
Health Departments to achieve this. alternative to simply waiting for the innovations we are looking at
vaccine. implementing. This has been very
It should also be noted that many
independent festivals and GMVs It is also crucial to stress that this effective for the sports sector,
will quickly reach a tipping point in work on improved ventilation with the Sports Technology and
terms of any additional cost and we and pathogen reduction systems Innovation Group. We recommend
would welcome further analysis of is important not just for tackling that Government does the same for
this approach in a festival-specific COVID-19 – it will have a dramatic the live performing arts sector.
context. The sooner live music events impact on reducing the transmission
can open without social distancing, of seasonal viruses, like flu. It
the sooner the sector will need also has huge relevance for the
less overt Government support. future. COVID-19 has generated an
Certifying safe ways of operating increased focus on globally spread
under an airborne pandemic will be diseases and there is growing
an important learning, and thereby speculation about where the next
future-proof the sector. pandemic might come from.
Finally, there is the question of We do not know when the next
certainty. Certifying enhanced epidemic will hit us, but if and when
health approaches would give it does, the music industry will be
ready. We are determined to be
47
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine-mhra-statement
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/oxfordastrazeneca-covid-19-vaccine-mhra-statement-confirming-letter-received
21Rae Sremmurd at Wireless Festival 2019 | James Bridle ©
2223
recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Economic Risks
For as long as the current social proposed by One Industry One to be synchronised.
distancing restrictions remain in Voice, ticket matching or an increase Businesses right down the supply
place and with the enhanced health to the CRF.51 Critically, this would chain need to be confident that they
approaches not certified, most make socially distanced performance can reopen in such a way that they
of the live music sector cannot economical, not stimulate consumer can meet sufficient profit margins to
operate viably. While the situation demand. However, it would unlock at least start to claw back the debt
endures, more needs to be done consumer spending and business incurred and losses made during
to address the economic risk of activity, generating work throughout the restrictions (much Government
socially distanced performances the live music ecosystem. support has been in the form of loans
to stimulate more activity in the The sector wants to get back to work as opposed to grants). To support the
sector. Indeed, the Culture Secretary yet cannot do so economically due live sector as it exits restrictions, UK
Oliver Dowden has stated that to Government restrictions across Music has a set of key asks of the UK
one of the purposes of the Culture the UK. If the music industry is not and devolved Governments:
Recovery Fund (CRF) in England was allowed to operate viably, then
to act as an investment in activity Government will need to address the An indicative date for full
as opposed to simply a mothballing economic risk to festivals and venues capacity restart
exercise.48 While the £1.57 billion and financially support socially The Government has published its
was very welcome, this was spread distanced events until full reopening roadmap for reopening, however
over the creative industries worth can be reached with a vaccine. it does not include any dates.52
cumulatively £117 billion that have
We are confident that through Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales
been losing £1.4 billion per week
partnership with Government and have also indicated the levels that
during the pandemic.49 The CRF has
the private sector we can effectively they will each need to move through
been successful in protecting many
manage the public health risks to reach full reopening but not
valued cultural organisations and
at festivals and live music events given timescales, nor have indicated
institutions, but it has not stimulated
and make them safe places to be. whether each level will be necessary.
enough activity to support artists and
However, even if an enhanced An indicative date for the reopening
freelancers, with a Musicians’ Union
health approach and early opening is of venues for non-socially distanced
survey finding that 70% of musicians
adopted, there will remain significant performance is vital to allow the
have received less than a quarter of
challenges for the industry. It is sector to be able to plan and prepare
their usual work.50
also vital that existing support is for the return of large-scale events.
Several proposals have been put maintained until Stage 5 reopening is The Health Secretary Matt Hancock
forward including suggestions of reached, whenever in 2021 that may has stressed to the Commons,
subsidy schemes such as those be. The support and restrictions need “The end is in sight…The return of
48
https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/1049/pdf/
49
https://www.creativeindustriesfederation.com/sites/default/files/inlineimages/The%20Projected%20Economic%20Impact%20of%20Covid19%20on%20the%20Creative%20
Industries%20Report%20%20Creative%20Industries%20Federation%202020.pdf
https://www.ukmusic.org/news/uk-music-welcomes-government-support-to-help-save-135-grassroots-music-venu
50
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
https://www.musiciansunion.org.uk/Home/Advice/covid-19/take-action-pandemic
51
https://www.gov.uk/government/groups/culture-recovery-board
https://www.nme.com/news/music/musicians-and-crew-call-for-seat-out-to-help-out-scheme-and-tailor-made-job-support-to-survive-until-april-2782730
52
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/our-plan-to-rebuild-the-uk-governments-COVID-recovery-strategy/the-next-chapter-in-our-plan-to-rebuild-the-uk-governments-
COVID-recovery-strategy--2
24our freedoms is on the horizon.” 53 and the knock-on effect this has fund would sit separate to the usual
The Secretary of State for Digital, on the ability to procure insurance. cancellation claims and would pay
Culture, Media and Sport Oliver Most festivals and GMVs did not out in the event of a COVID-19
Dowden has suggested that March/ have insurance which covered enforced cancellation.
April 2021 was being “looked at” as communicable diseases at the The proposed fund would pay out
a time for loosening restrictions.54 outbreak of the pandemic and many a higher proportion of costs closer
The Prime Minister himself spoke existing policies specifically excluded to the date of cancellation, while it
of the “sure and certain knowledge COVID-19. The commercial insurance would also have geographic limits
that we will succeed” in returning market is not currently offering on the spread of events covered to
to normality in Spring 2021.55 While any COVID-19 cancellation policies prevent overexposure. The sector
encouraging, these statements are whatsoever for festivals and this may has estimated that a £650 million
not specific enough for business be the case until 2022. fund would allow £2 billion worth of
purposes. We would propose that We have seen recent successful activity to go ahead. Giving longer
all four UK Governments announce support in this area with the £500 term certainty would also make the
an April 2021 date for reopening million Restart Scheme for Film current VAT cut more effective by
without social distancing to provide and TV which helped delayed allowing venues and festivals to take
clarity. It should be made clear that productions obtain insurance.56 While advantage of this through ticket
support will continue until this date. we appreciate that the film and TV sales.
The timing of the announcement insurance scheme was put in place Furthermore, any income from
of an indicative date is crucial. We under a different context to live sales would help businesses and
envisage major live music festivals music events, it should be noted that organisations in the supply chain
for the summer will need to make insurance remains a primary barrier looking to survive this difficult
decisions as to whether they are to events going ahead.57 period. We would note that the
going ahead in January 2021, and so The live music sector has drafted a German Federal Government has
it is imperative that we have certainty proposal for a reinsurance scheme pledged €2.5 billion to insure
for the sector as soon as possible. which would cover events from any events for the second half of 2021.
Introduce a government- indicated re-opening date in 2021 (to The Austrian Government has also
be confirmed) to December 2022. established a €300 million umbrella
backed reinsurance The promoter/venue would pay into scheme for promoters.58
scheme a COVID-19 fund, to be matched With other countries acting to give
A major barrier to the scheduling of by the Government, in addition to events and festival confidence to go
events is the inherent uncertainty an additional premium paid by the ahead with events in that period, we
around the progress of the pandemic insurance industry. This COVID-19
53
https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2020-12-01/debates/27DE3E44-807A-4596-AD7C-946314AC3E2A/PublicHealth?highlight=spring#contribution-34BA733A-859F-484F-
B34A-2A1F30CB81BE
54
https://committees.parliament.uk/oralevidence/1049/pdf/
55
https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/prime-ministers-statement-on-coronavirus-covid-19-2-december-2020
56
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/film-tv-production-restart-scheme
57
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2020/nov/26/uk-coronavirus-live-average-pay-covid-england-tiers-boris-johnson-scotland
58
https://www.iq-mag.net/2020/10/e300m-umbrella-for-austrian-promoters/#.X9Dhodj7Q2w
25recovery
How to get the Sector Back on its Feet | Managing Economic Risks
would welcome UK festivals being summer 2021. economic support to make it viable.
given the same certainty.59 Our preference as an industry is
Only the UK Government can raise Targeted financial to be able to support ourselves by
the level of support needed to support generating our own income, as we
underwrite the insurance, and with always have done – but if we are not
The sector is not unviable, it has been
other countries taking action to allowed to do so, then we will require
effectively closed-down all year by
protect their events industries it additional economic support, either
Government instruction put in place
is vital that the UK does the same. in the form of an extended CRF or
to preserve public health, either by
We would emphasise that this a scheme like that proposed by the
law or by the economics of operating
issue is highly time sensitive – with OneVoice campaign.
under the restrictions. Therefore,
many festivals usually taking six to there is a moral imperative that Gaps in the existing support
eight months minimum of advance support be maintained for those who packages also need to be addressed.
planning, they will be deciding cannot currently work. Furthermore, Any reopening of the sector needs
whether to go ahead or not in Q1 it makes economic sense given the the workers and businesses in place
2021. 2021 festivals early in the promising outlook for a vaccine - a to make it happen. 72% of those
season (May/June) are already time relatively small investment to keep working in the music industry are
shifting / cancelling due to this skills in the sector now could pay self-employed freelancers, and as we
lengthy planning cycle. If they cannot massive dividends when the sector have repeatedly highlighted many
secure appropriate insurance, then looks to reopen. are falling in between cracks in the
they will not be able to take place. support.
The first half of 2021 will be critical
The larger the festival, the longer the While many in the music industry
for the sector. Support like Business
lead-in time required. The same can have helped by coordinating and
Rate Relief, the Coronavirus
also be applied to venues, with many contributing to a range of hardship
Job Retention Scheme and Self-
stadium tours booked over a year in funds supported by UK Music
employment Income Support
advance. members (including PPL, PRS for
Scheme (SEISS) has been critical.
On a practical level, with a lack of Music, the BPI, the Musicians’ Union,
If the sector is not allowed to reopen
viable insurance options hindering AIM and the MMF) there are many
fully (i.e. without restrictions) in
the ability of businesses to plan, we in our industry’s workforce who still
line with this, any withdrawal of
risk a dearth of live music events for face an immense financial struggle.
support would be catastrophic.
the public to enjoy when restrictions Only 34.2% of creative freelancers
Furthermore, if the sector is not
are lifted. This is of particular note have accessed SEISS and it is
allowed to open without social
as we see increasing Government critical that the Government looks
distancing at this point, it will require
confidence of resuming normality by to close the gaps in support that
59
https://accessaa.co.uk/german-government-creates-e2-5bn-fund-to-cover-event-cancellation-costs/
26exist including for the newly self- shows have been put on, demand has measure is currently of limited use to
employed, those drawing dividends been high. music businesses. Extending the VAT
in lieu of salary and those with mixed Targeted support must be put in cut beyond March would maximise its
incomes.60 The House of Commons place which recognises the unique effect of supporting festivals while
Treasury Select Committee Report dynamics of the music industry and incentivising venues to schedule
Employment and COVID-19: Time for how it is impacted by the pandemic. performances, sell tickets and take
a New Deal has made clear that too Doing so would ensure the artists, advantage of the cut. This would be
many of the self-employed who need managers, composers, songwriters, of greater benefit to businesses in
support have missed out on it.61 sound engineers, promoters, the live sector and also incentivise
It is vital that all four Governments technicians and countless others activity, which would in turn support
work together to ensure that that the sector relies on can get the the rest of the music eco-system. An
businesses and jobs are supported in support they need. This is critical for extension of the VAT cut would allow
a way that matches local restrictions. the industry’s recovery so it can get businesses to re-capitalise more
This will ensure that health measures back on its feet and continue the quickly and maintain their cashflows.
are able to match the crisis without work of rebuilding this world-leading A temporary reduced rate of 5% VAT
causing undue damage to businesses. industry to pre-COVID-19 levels. is needed to make a real difference
Support must be extended until full to many live music businesses that
We have welcomed where devolved
reopening is possible. operate at very narrow margins.
Governments have been responsive
to gaps in support, such as the
Scottish Government's newly-self Extension to the VAT rate Rollover of the paid 2020
employed hardship fund, but we reduction on tickets Local Authority license
would prefer these gaps to be As it stands, the Chancellor has fees
rectified at a UK level to ensure those extended the VAT reduction on ticket Festivals have faced severe
across the UK can benefit. sales to 31 March 2021. However, problems as a result of the COVID-19
Music festivals and venues have the music venues and festivals were pandemic, one of which is non-
majority of their staff on furlough precluded from operating under the refundable costs which were sunk
and therefore a plan that explicitly national lockdown which was in place into the 90% of festivals which were
links support to full reopening from 5 November to 2 December cancelled. On an average these were
could help protect those jobs.62 But 2020 and we still have no indication of £375,000.63 Licensing fees are one
once restrictions lift, if the skills are of when events will be permitted to of the key costs festival face each
there the sector can quickly return take place in such a way that they are year. Where those festivals have had
to profitability - anecdotally where economical to put on. Therefore, this to be cancelled due to COVID-19
60
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/self-employment-income-support-scheme-statistics-september-2020
61
https://committees.parliament.uk/publications/3958/documents/39777/default/
62
https://concertpromotersassociation.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/REPORT_UK-Live-Music-at-a-Cliff-Edge.pdf
63
https://www.ukmusic.org/assets/general/UK_Music_Submission_to_DCMS_Select_Committee_ImpactCOVID_7_May2020.pdf p. 6 and 10
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