Musicians Union signs on with BLiM

Musicians Union signs on with BLiM

News

norman lebrecht

June 07, 2022

Statement from the MU:

The Musicians’ Union (MU) and Black Lives in Music (BLiM) have announced a 3-year partnership that will see the organisations work together to challenge racism, promote inclusive practices and accelerate change regarding diversity in the music industry.

BLiM ‘s report ‘Being Black in the UK Music Industry’, published last year, is to date the largest survey of Black musicians and music
industry professionals conducted in the UK. The report documented clear evidence of the issues and barriers that Black musicians face and
highlighted how racism is preventing Black musicians from reaching their full potential and severely impacting their mental health.

Naomi Pohl, MU General Secretary, said:

“Supporting the industry on its journey to become a more diverse and inclusive place to work is a priority for the MU. Working with BLiM will help us realise that ambition. BLiM’s ground-breaking research shone a light on the areas where Black musicians and specifically Black female musicians encounter barriers and experience discrimination. We are really excited to work with BLiM on changing that experience and shaping the future of the industry.”

Comments

  • N/A says:

    Great news!

  • Dismayed says:

    Think the British music scene, especially amongst classical musicians, race has not been an issue, the only criteria you play well and can fulfil artistic standard. Doesn’t matter what colour, creed, political affiliation, gender – if you’re up to the job!
    Shame on the MU for joining the BLM, which has sinister connotations. Read up on it .
    Why weren’t the members consulted? Ah yes. We must apologise for being white and therefore privileged.

    • Stephen Maddock says:

      For clarity: this organisation is Black Lives in Music BLiM), a new charity doing excellent work in the UK.

      It has nothing to do with the Black Lives Matter organisation.

  • Tom Emlyn Williams says:

    One solution could be to increase music in schools, ALL schools!

  • Dragonetti says:

    Given the havoc that a certain person pictured in the above group recently caused for the orchestra of ETO I think we can watch this one with bated breath.
    Oh dear!

  • Anthony Sayer says:

    What about that group called ‘Being Competent in Music’. How are they getting on?

  • ChocolateBunny says:

    One does not end race-ism with more race-ism.

  • Pianofortissimo says:

    Another organization hijacked by activists. Virtuous use of the members fee?

  • guest says:

    Are the negative comments about the headline or the story? Just asking.

  • Pierre says:

    A shameful political “woke” move!!! It’s revolting when Music is made into a political weapon!!

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