ISM MUSIC JOURNAL MAY/JUNE 2021 | NEWS & CAMPAIGNS
News & campaigns The immediate impact of Brexit on musicians In recent weeks, as the situation for musicians has become clearer, protecting the viability of performing in Europe has been a top priority for the ISM. We have sought every possible opportunity to campaign for a reduction in the additional costs, delays and paperwork created by the Brexit agreement.
UK musicians from touring, as Europe begins to reopen after the coronavirus. Read our report: ism.org/news/ professionally-paralysed-brexit-report We are continuing to call on the government to: • negotiate a bespoke visa waiver agreement with the European Union (EU) that is separate from the trade deal exempting touring performers, creative teams and crews from needing to obtain a visa when seeking paid work
We know how concerning this situation is for our members and we are committed to finding • prioritise bilateral discussions with individual collaborative solutions for a sector that is already EU Member States that do not offer cultural suffering. That is why we have joined forces with the exemptions for work permits, such as Spain, Italy, Musicians’ Union to maximise our impact. Our Chief and Portugal, as well as those which are financially Executive Deborah Annetts and MU’s General Secretary the most important to UK performers Horace Trubridge are working closely together and demonstrating a unified voice for musicians. • publish guidance to help the performing arts sector navigate the different requirements for each Together with the Musicians’ Union, we have published European country. The ISM has already compiled a a report (31 March) with personal testimonies from comprehensive overview of these rules, but now we music professionals who are facing economic disaster need authoritative Government advice to provide as a result of Brexit. It contains 17 named case studies reassurance across the touring supply chain. and eight anonymous stories that reveal how new administrative and financial burdens are preventing
