Known throughout the world, The Musicians' Union (MU) is an organisation which represents over thirty thousand musicians working in all sectors of the music business. As well as negotiating on behalf of musicians with all the major employers in the industry, the MU offers a range of services tailored for the self-employed by providing assistance for professional and student musicians of all ages. Specialist full-time officials are available to tackle the issues raised by musicians working in the live arena, the recording studio, or when writing and composing. These issues can range from copyright protection to valuable contractual advice or from the recovery of unpaid fees to crucial work in health and safety.

As a musician, it is unlikely that you would go through your training and career without experiencing the need to ask someone for some music-related advice. The many services provided by the MU mean that the organisation can assist you throughout your professional careers and beyond.

Career and business advice is available to musicians who are looking to increase their employment opportunities in all areas of the music business. The MU's experienced team is always available to offer valuable advice when musicians need it most.

The Union's respected legal advice and assistance scheme not only aims to assist musicians to recover fees for engagements and cancellations, but also deals with disputes over music- related contracts, engagement or employment as a musician, intellectual property rights and even personal injuries.

Throughout your professional life as a musician you may be required to enter into complex and often long-term agreements for various reasons including recording and song-writing, the engagement of management and contracts for touring and merchandising. The MU has a Contract Advisory Service which ensures that musicians receive expert advice on the implications of these types of contract.

Musicians can gain access to exclusive insurance schemes which provide cover for instruments and musical equipment, including equipment in home studios. Other types of useful insurance available include motor, household and travel cover.

The MU consists of musicians from every genre, of every age, every style and from many cultures. The MU is a true community of musicians from household names to those just starting out. Membership enables musicians to network with the industry via the MU's Regional and Specialist structure and gives musicians a great chance to maximise their career opportunities.

The MU's specialist Media Department looks after members' recorded performances. The team negotiates agreements with broadcasters, film producers and record companies and collects and distributes musicians' fees for use of their recorded performances.

MU members are insured personally in respect of legal liability that may arise following injury tp or damage affecting members of the public. The limit of indemnity is ten million pounds. This policy covers the musicians when performing, rehearsing or auditioning either solo or as part of a group, band or orchestra and/or whilst teaching either at the member's own home or in a public place.