In a blow to the UK’s music industry, internal briefing documents from the European Commission have revealed that post-Brexit curbs on UK touring musicians will not be relaxed. The news, reported by the Financial Times, has sent shockwaves through the sector, which has already been severely impacted by the restrictions on freedom of movement.
Problems for musicians
“Our industry is slowly dying. And I don’t know what to do,” said Rachel Nicholls, one of the UK’s leading opera singers. Nicholls’ story is emblematic of the plight faced by many British artists post-Brexit. Prior to the UK’s departure from the EU, Nicholls regularly worked across Europe, securing 5 to 10 jobs annually. However, Brexit has led to a significant decline in opportunities. “I think we’re now out of the equation in terms of working in Europe, and although I’m freelance and British, up until Brexit I was working more in Europe than I was here. Since leaving the EU, I’ve had one job there. One.”
Nicholls is not alone. New research indicates that almost 60% of UK musicians now say they can no longer tour in the EU, a figure that highlights the devastating impact of Brexit on the music sector. The issue is not just confined to musicians, but extends to theatre groups, dancers, fashion photographers, comedians, and other creative professionals who once thrived on cross-border opportunities.
The situation is dire. A recent survey by the Musicians’ Union found that 75% of musicians reported a decline in EU touring bookings, and 59% said that touring the EU was no longer financially viable. The music sector is a vital part of the UK’s creative industry, contributing over £10 billion in revenue, but the curtailment of freedom of movement has left many artists struggling to survive.
Face The Music campaign
The Face The Music campaign is calling on the UK government to urgently address these issues and negotiate better terms for musicians and other artists wishing to work and tour in the EU. The campaign has launched a petition to raise awareness and push for action.
Dr. Mike Galsworthy, Chair of European Movement UK, emphasized the need for stronger negotiations on mobility. “Starmer cannot get something for nothing in his EU negotiations. We really need him to be more ambitious on this front and open up conversations about mobility in general, which is what the British public want to see,” Galsworthy said. “Remember, it’s not just musicians, it’s theatre groups, fashion photographers, dancers, comedians, and British culture in all of its wonderful dimensions. Brexit has boxed them in, and it’s time to tear down these walls.”
The EU had previously offered visa waivers and musician passports during the original Brexit negotiations, but these were rejected by the Conservative government. As a result, the future of many UK artists remains uncertain, with their livelihoods and the UK’s cultural influence at risk of further erosion.
This article is based on a media release from European Movement
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