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Equality groups

Improving equality, diversity and inclusion in the music industry

As a trade union with a diverse membership, we understand the challenges musicians face and the need to be led by you. Watch MU Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion John Shortell talk about how the Musicians’ Union is campaigning for a fairer and more equitable music industry, and how MU members can get involved.

The MU's work

Latest stories

An almost silhouette of a women from behind in front of a stage in the spotlight.

Gabriella Di Laccio and the Donne Foundation: Championing Women in Music

This Women’s History Month we share a powerful guest blog from an award-winning soprano, recording artist, public speaker, curator and activist. Meet Gabriella Di Laccio, the unstoppable force behind Donne, Women in Music - a charitable foundation which is breaking records and influencing change.

Published: 14 March 2024

Read more about Gabriella Di Laccio and the Donne Foundation: Championing Women in Music
Vulva Voce standing in a dark room holding their instruments.

International Women’s Day 2024: Vulva Voce on Breaking the Conventions of Classical Music

In this blog, all-female genre-defying string quartet Vulva Voce celebrate their recent involvement in a world record for the longest acoustic music live-streamed concert, and share the powerful reminder that music written and performed by women and non-binary people is abundant and limitless.

Published: 06 March 2024

Read more about International Women’s Day 2024: Vulva Voce on Breaking the Conventions of Classical Music

MU Supports Cheltenham Jazz Festival’s First Conference on Disability and Music

This May Cheltenham Jazz Festival will host the first Access To Music Conference, which will see industry figures gather together to explore the challenges faced by disabled people participating in music and live events. Tickets are now on sale for both in-person and online attendance.

Published: 21 February 2024

Read more about MU Supports Cheltenham Jazz Festival’s First Conference on Disability and Music

Equality and diversity in the music industry and why it matters

Equality is not about treating everybody the same

It goes without saying that everybody should be treated fairly and equally regardless of their race, sex, sexuality or any of the other protected characteristics. That said, treating someone fairly can sometimes mean having to treat them differently to take into account their circumstances and enable them to participate on equal terms.

A musician with full sight, for example, does not require Braille scores, or a Trans musician may need extra support whilst transitioning that a cisgender musician will not. Equality is about levelling the playing field so everybody has access to the same opportunities. 

Diversity is about recognising individual as well as group differences, and aims to create an inclusive culture for all

Diversity values and respects people’s differences to ensure everybody’s needs and requirements are met. Supporting diversity in music could be something as simple as changing the music you teach so you’re not only teaching white European composers or making sure your rehearsal space is accessible to musicians with disabilities.

Equality and diversity leads to more innovation and more opportunities for everyone, and better access to talent

Working with people from different backgrounds and with different experiences allows us to learn and get a new perspective.

The benefits of equality and diversity are clear but this doesn’t mean embracing equality and diversity is easy. The MU works with a range of members and organisations to ensure best practice is highlighted, implemented and adhered to regarding equality and diversity issues. 

Contact MU Equalities team

If you’d like to discuss any other matter related to music and equal rights at work, contact us on 020 7840 5506 or email us.