Charity announces funding for touring musicians hit by Brexit red tape

A UK charity has announced financial support for musicians who are dealing with costs and red tape while touring Europe after Brexit.

elp Musicians was founded more than 100 years ago to support professional musicians of all genres and ages in times of need.

The charity has announced a £250,000 fund to help people keep performing abroad – particularly in Europe – after the complicated and costly procedures surrounding touring have increased since the UK left the European Union.

Funding is also available to musicians impacted by Covid-19 restrictions who need support to get back touring and performing.

Help Musicians sponsors wider access to international tour advice through free 30-minute consultations with Viva La Visa – a service developed by the Incorporated Society of Musicians and The Musicians’ Union.

James Ainscough, Chief Executive of Help Musicians, said: “It’s important for musicians to get back on the road, both domestically and internationally, to experience live performance again, grow their fan base and earn some much-needed income.

“Touring is expensive and risky, so our £250,000 will support musicians willing to take the plunge and advance their careers.

“Furthermore, musicians now need additional support to arrange international tours as there is a lot of post-Brexit complexity that can lead to career-ending consequences if not managed properly.”

Musicians can apply for financial support at any time and receive up to £5,000.

video of the day

Funds are available to cover touring expenses such as session musician and crew fees, PR and marketing, merchandise and some of the international administrative fees such as visas.

Broader access to Viva La Visa’s touring advisory service aims to help musicians rebuild their careers after Covid-19 and provide practical advice to musicians looking to tour.

Support is available for 18 months.

Musicians’ union general secretary Naomi Pohl said: “Musicians are really struggling with the practicalities of touring in the EU post-Brexit; The costs and the additional paperwork prove to be a real challenge.

“The music industry has worked hard to provide musicians with the right information. We hope that this service, along with our comprehensive online advice, will help musicians walk this difficult path.”