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Further Clarification for Performances and Rehearsals of Non-Professional Musicians in England

The Government has updated their Covid-19 guidance for those working in the performing arts, which clarifies that non-professional musicians can perform and rehearse in Covid-secure venues in England.

Published: 28 August 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:31 PM
Photograph of a saxophonist performing outdoors in a park setting.
Organisers should review the Government’s Performing Arts guidance in full and ensure any planned activity is compliant before it goes ahead. Photo credit: Shutterstock

New guidance from the Government confirms that there are no set limits on the numbers who can be involved in planned non-professional activity taking place outside and/or in a Covid-secure venues in England.

It does however specify that organisations must ensure an appropriate COVID-19 risk assessment is carried out and that the number of individuals involved are able to be socially distanced at all times. Organisers should review the Government’s Performing Arts guidance in full and ensure any planned activity is compliant before it goes ahead.

We expressed concern at previous guidance, which seemed to leave amateur choirs, brass bands and other ensembles with less rights to meet, rehearse and perform – whilst group meetings such as non-professional sports team were allowed.

Read our latest FAQs on the easing of Covid-19 restrictions for the performing arts.

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Exterior of Caird Hall in the city centre of Dundee, Scotland.

Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024

This week we attended the annual Scottish Trades Union Congress with MU Delegates Christine Cooper and Ben Lunn, who discussed the importance of music education, community arts in Scotland and establishing a Music Expo Office for the country. All three of our motions were passed unanimously.

Published: 18 April 2024

Read more about Representing Our Scottish Members at STUC Congress 2024
Two young female street musicians, one playing acoustic guitar and the other an accordian.

Deadline Approaching for Funding From Alan Surtees Trust 

The Alan Surtees Trust makes up to four awards of £2,000 annually to support performers aged 16 to 30 with projects rooted in, or influenced by, folk or traditional music of all cultures. The deadline for applications is April 30.

Published: 15 April 2024

Read more about Deadline Approaching for Funding From Alan Surtees Trust 
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