Over a third of musicians are considering quitting the music industry, poll finds
Worrying findings
Last updated 22nd Sep 2020
More than one-third of musicians are considering permanently quitting their career in the music industry due to financial hardship caused directly by the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new poll.
The Musicians’ Union, which represents over 32,000 musicians working in all sectors of the British music business, has published the findings of its latest Covid-19 impact poll today (22nd September).
They discovered that 34% of those polled are considering abandoning their career in music, while a further 37% are unsure.
47% of members have already sought work outside the music industry, while 70% have been unable to undertake more than a quarter of their usual work.
Additionally, 87% of those covered by the current government furlough scheme say they are facing economic difficulty once it ends on 31st October 2020, and 88% believe the government needs to do more to support musicians.
In July, the government announced a £1.57 billion emergency support package for the entertainment sector to be distributed to music venues, theatres, galleries, independent cinemas, museums and more via loans and grants.
Shortly before the government’s announcement, UK Music and members of the UK Live Music Group launched the #LetTheMusicPlay campaign highlighting the importance of the sector to the UK’s economy. It was backed by 1,500 music acts including Iron Maiden, Pink Floyd, Genesis and The Rolling Stones.
A second wave of the #LetTheMusicPlay campaign started in August calling on the government to back crew members, musicians and any individuals who work to make live music happen.
Commenting on the Covid-19 impact poll results, Horace Trubridge, General Secretary of the Musicians’ Union, said the figures are “devastating.”
Thanking the government for their help supporting members so far, Trubridge said that with music venues only allowed to fill to 30% of capacity due to social distancing, the government should implement “a seat-matching scheme” taking venue’s revenues to 60%.
Trubridge said: “These figures are devastating and show how many musicians are struggling financially and at real risk of leaving music for good. In better times, our members drive a £5bn music industry with their talent. One artist’s gig will create a domino effect of jobs – from lighting technicians to ticket sellers. If one musician is out of work, you can be sure many others will be affected too.
“We appreciate all the Government has done to support our members through the furlough and self-employment income support schemes so far, but they must not abandon musicians now. With social distancing measures still in place, venues can only sell at around 30% of usual capacity.
“We are calling on the Government to implement a seat-matching scheme, which would take venues’ potential revenue to 60%, providing a lifeline to musicians and the wider industry.
“Getting musicians back to work is the priority. However, this is simply not realistic for so many of our members while social distancing remains in place. We strongly urge the Government to recognise the unique situation that our members are in and to provide sector specific financial support for musicians.”