skip to main content

Midlothian Council Propose Drastic Cuts to Instrumental Music Service

The MU are urging members affected to contact their regional office, following the hugely concerning news that Midlothian Council plans to reduce their instrumental music service by 60%.

Published: 24 January 2023 | 10:35 AM
Abstract close up of a cello bridge, throwing an interesting shaped shadow on a sunny lit floor.
We understand that the proposals outline plans to reduce the instrumental music service by 60%. Photo credit: Shutterstock

The MU are hugely concerned by proposals from Midlothian Council detailing plans to drastically cut the Instrumental Music Service. This comes as part of the councils efforts to close a £14.481 million funding gap.

Whilst we have not yet received the impact statement, we understand that the proposals outline plans to reduce the instrumental music service by 60%, and implement a service operated only by the funding received from the Scottish Government.

Read the Midlothian Council’s saving proposals in full.

We urge any MU members who have been affected to contact the regional office by emailing glasgow@TheMU.org.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes accident cover, health schemes, travel insurance and car insurance add-ons through the Musicians’ Union.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Black and white newspaper clipping image of Gerry smiling sat a piano.

Tribute to Gerry Collins aka Gerald Isaacson ATCL LTCL

Gerry was a MU member for 45 years, and a gifted musician and educator. He passed away on 1 January 2023 after a long, rich and varied career. This tribute has been provided by his wife Diana and daughter Natasha.

Published: 16 May 2024

Read more about Tribute to Gerry Collins aka Gerald Isaacson ATCL LTCL
Empty stage with drum kit, cast in green light in a small music venue.

MU Responds to CMS Report on Grassroots Music Venues

We welcome the recommendations made to Government in the report by the Culture, Media and Sport Committee (CMS), and are hopeful that we can use this opportunity to start to repair the grassroots live scene for all involved.

Published: 14 May 2024

Read more about MU Responds to CMS Report on Grassroots Music Venues
A young man in a wheel chair writing in his journal and working on his computer.

What Could a UBI Do For My Trade Union?

Catch up with musician Balraj Samrai, Labour MP John McDonnell and others on why unions should support a universal basic income (UBI), plus find out how you can be part of the movement too.

Published: 13 May 2024

Read more about What Could a UBI Do For My Trade Union?