Orchestral Agreements and Rates of Pay

The MU negotiates and agrees salaries, rates of pay and conditions with all the major UK orchestras, engagers and organisations, as well as setting our own promulgated rates.

Last updated: 26 September 2023

We have more than 40 collective agreements with orchestras – from freelance chamber orchestras to large symphony orchestras (such as BBC Symphony Orchestra), opera and ballet orchestras. The salaries, rates of pay, and terms and conditions for those who play in orchestras are set by the collective agreements.

In addition, we have both Freelance Agreements and Employment Agreements to ensure you get the best negotiated salary rates, terms and conditions.

We also regularly develop new in-house agreements to recognise the unique requirements of individual ensembles who work outside of the orchestral scene.

Latest news and features

Electric keyboard and microphone in foreground, with small choir group out of focus in the background.

MU Joins Calls for ‘Voice’ to be Eligible Instrument Under Orchestra Tax Relief to Enable Choirs to Benefit

Major music sector organisations, networks and individuals are calling for ‘voice’ to be added to the eligible instruments, so that choirs can claim Orchestra Tax Relief.

Published: 24 April 2024

Exterior of the Wales Millennium Centre Cardiff, where the Welsh National Opera is based.

MU Responds to Welsh National Opera Cuts

Musicians' Union members in the orchestra of Welsh National Opera (WNO) are facing a reduction in working weeks, equating to a 15% pay cut as a result of a funding shortfall for the company.

Published: 28 March 2024

Magnifying glass over a light bulb icon on a wooden block, with yellow background.

MU Experts Delve into Labour’s New ‘Access to Arts’ Plan

In this special feature, some of the key departments at the Musicians’ Union respond to Labour’s new report on supporting the creative industries, explaining how these plans may affect our members and their careers.

Published: 19 March 2024

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

Back view of conductor directing a symphony orchestra on stage.

MU Welcomes Budget Tax Relief for Theatres and Orchestras

After sustained lobbying from the MU, UK Music and other unions, the Chancellor today announced a permanent increase in the rate of tax relief for orchestras and theatres.

Published: 06 March 2024

MU Orchestra Stewards

The work of the Orchestra Stewards and the Roving Stewards is vital in representing you to your employer and is a prime example of a union run by members for its members.

Join the Freelance Orchestral Committee

If you are a freelance orchestral player wanting to take a more hands-on approach to the way your pay and terms are negotiated, join the FOC.

Get involved

Join the Orchestra Section

Join the MU

Join the MU for £1, get six months free

Reduced membership rate for disabled musicians

woman giving a vocal lesson to a young man

Partner rates for EIS, Ivors Academy, NEU, RCO, UCU members

Just £24 per year for student members

Join now

Contact the Musicians' Union today

The MU has a network of experienced teams available to help musicians in all areas of the industry. If you have any questions about our services, membership or how the MU could help you, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Contact the MU

Cookies on Musicians' Union

Use your voice

Popular searches