Live Music Act: MU get their kit on

The much discussed Live Music Act became law this week, with the Musicians' Union (MU),  issuing a ‘Music Kit’ primarily aimed at smaller venues that can now stage live shows without a license.

As previously reported, the Act received the royal assent in March this year and it essentially removes red tape for smaller venues, allowing a licensing exemption in venues with a capacity of 200 or less.

MU General Secretary John Smith said: “The implementation of the Live Music Act signifies an exciting time for both venues and musicians, who can use the opportunity to work together to create a growing audience and profile, and long-term success”.

Smith also referred to recent research from the PRS for Music that demonstrated the benefit that live music can bring to pubs and said: “Small venues are, after all, the places where most musicians start their careers and so promoting opportunities for live performance in small venues protects the career progression of musicians in the UK”.

The ‘Kit’ outlines the terms of the Act, explains how a live music programme can enhance a small business and addresses various legislative and creative elements involved in putting on live turns and all that. It also contains useful advice on issues such as promotion, contracts and health and safety and can be downloaded from the MU’s website.

Trade Association UK Music unveiled new research at the end of last week revealing that 13,000 additional venues in the UK could now stage gigs for the first time, with over 20,000 now able to increase their provision of live music.

For further invaluable live music support and help, go to Generator’s website.