Tag: advice (Page 1 of 9)

Everyone has a piece of the puzzle. We must stand united and work together or face annihilation

If you want to know why authoritarians attack the Arts, it’s simple: It’s about control. It’s about creating a society where propaganda reigns and dissent is silenced. They will seek to continuously divide us in order to push us to do what suits them, whoever “they” might be this week. There’s a war going on and the enemy will always seek to rearrange your priorities, to suit their needs.

How do we avoid the apocalypse? We have forgotten a basic operating standard. We have to find a way to unite, to stand together, to make the change we want to see. We can only do this together.

“…..the way to impact people is not to change their minds but to speak to their hearts and souls through music and art. Such forms of expression are less like treatises or manifestos than sigils — magickal ceremonies that recalibrate our collective perceptions, beliefs, and intentions. Reality becomes fungible.” – Douglas Rushkoff

By this I think Rushkoff is saying, with this approach, our perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes toward reality become fluid and interchangeable, rather than fixed or absolute. Everyone can contribute or play their own part for the benefit of everyone involved. We have to be united in our pusuit of a better situation for all, rather than argue fixed or absolute positions. Isn’t this what artists, writers, musicians and performers have been doing since the start? How could we forget?

Douglas Rushkoff also said that “Each of us will do so much less damage with our errors, if we enact our plans for a just and environmentally friendly world as individuals….. seeing what catches on, rather than as great reset policy enactors doing stuff on a global or cosmic level.”

Every artist, writer, performer or musician has a piece of the puzzle. So do all those who work with them or in collaboration with them. And you have a piece of the puzzle too. What I want to suggest is a playful end to the idea of “competition amongst ourselves.” We all have a stake in the well being of music and all those who make it happen. It’s time to stop flinging insults, or mouthing off, or suggesting your fixed idea is better than the other fixed idea. We all have a piece of the puzzle and we all have something to contribute. All of us have value. Music has value. We all work with, enjoy, create or share music. It doesn’t matter if you are a big venue or a small venue, a new artist or an old dog who has toured the world many times over. It doesn’t matter if you are a booking agent or a music promoter, a management company or a friend of the band who helps organising the logistics of getting your mates to the gig.

All of us face the same issues, we all have to manage ourselves, our money, the risks we take, unforeseen circumstances, expenses, costs, changes in the economic climte, changes in peoples habits and financial status and so on. Just when you think you know how it works, something changes or something unforeseen happens. It’s called life. It’s what happens when you are working on other projects. Let’s work together and support one another as an operating standard. No one has all the answers. Between all of us that make up or particpate in the music community, we have the hope of seeing the bigger picture and making or pushing for the changes that are needed through our actions, what we do everyday.

We all seem to be expected to have opinions, skills and expertise in everything, but let’s face it, most of us have skills or expertise in only a few areas. And posting our opinions on facebook might make us feel better but it changes very little, and we end up upsetting or blocking the people we should be forging better relations with.

We have to stop arguing and find a way to move forward together, we have to learn to work together, again. Even when we might not want to. No one is right all the time, not even tour managers, and not everybody has the knowledge or experience of others. We are also under attack from Bots, Sales and Marketing strategies and Trolls who want to push us.

Don’t keep pulling the handbrake, look at the road infront, be aware of what is going on around you and show courtesy to other road users. But don’t let anything push you. We have to find a way to steer a path through all of this. Music must find a way for everyone to enjoy.

What I’m talking about is cooperation, unity, sharing and collaboration in the world of Music on every level in the face of mass destruction. Pardon me for going round in a big circle here but… this idea started Birmingham Music Network back in the year 2000. It is no longer the case that “this is good” but “that is bad.” It’s not “either, or,” it’s not “ones and zeros,” we have to leave the idea of “Binary thinking” behind and embrace “It can be both…. and.” We need a better understanding of quantum mechanics rather than the ability to read a simple bar code. If you’re an artist, I expect few rules apply. As Douglas Rushkoff has suggested, we need to keep things fluid and interchangeable, rather than fixed or absolute.

All creatives and anyone who works with them have something to offer, in some sense. It’s time to unite and stand together or be utterly consumed by what’s coming down the track. You’ve heard it many times before, United we stand, divided we fall. It’s time to find the others, and work with them. They may not be aware of what’s happening.

Musician’s must unite. Those who work with musicians must unite, venues and labels and promoters must unite. We are all struggling to find a way through. You probably think you’re all right. Maybe you are annoyed because you think everyone else is doing all right, maybe you are despairing because nothing is all right. The time has come to put away all these thoughts and look to one another for help and support and to learn to work together and operate for all our common good rather than some selfish pursuit. We all know the story of the big fish eating the little fish or the one company buying up, or putting out of business, all the other companies.

The pond we all live in, the ecosystem that sustains artists, musicians and creatives appears to be drying up. And big or small, all of us are staring down the end of all things. Either we adapt and overcome through collaboration and solidarity or we are going to be wiped away by our own myopic stupidity.

If you haven’t already noticed, the Music Business has relaunched itself as the Nostalgia Business and you weren’t even consulted. Everything is looking in the rear view mirror. What it used to be, where it used to be, what people used to like, what happened back when. The bands I work with sell more T-shirts and Hoodies than they do their own Records on Vinyl or CD. How can anyone justify an album budget when the 3 million streams it generates amounts to less than £200.

John Sinclair, the Detroit poet and former manager of MC5 said to me “I offered them Revolution, but the people didn’t want it.” John tried to bring people together to effect change but in the end people just wanted to do their own thing. The Revolution fell at the first fence. John also said “When I’m gone, the work must go on. Don’t just stop.” or words to that effect. For John it was all about the freedom to create whatever you wanted, to enjoy music, play music, share music and of course enjoy whatever else he wanted to do. He was a lifelong advocate for the legalisation of Marijuana. But John also said something else to me, he said “You have to make the world you want to live in, through your actions, what you do every day.” He said it was up to me. I had to choose what I wanted to do. We all have free will. So what should we do with it?

His words continue to send thoughts through my mind about the situation Musicians find themselves in and what we can do to make the world we live in better for everyone. We have to stand together now.

Go to any social media platform and you will find people offering you solutions in exchange for money, there’s the 5 things you need to know about, or the ten things you must do before. It’s always someone else’s fault. This record is not Mint, it’s VG+ at best. Everyone should do what someone else says. Everyone has an opinion and it is usually leading towards asking someone for money or telling you that what they are doing is better than what someone else is doing. In truth, no one is going to get a refund. Few of us are getting paid. We are all facing annihilation.

I would like to make a general call out to anyone who reads this, we need to encourage unity and cooperation across music, touring, cultural and creative industries because without that, none of us will be able to secure political and public support for the help we all need with the issues we face, especially in the UK. I’m talking about the consequences of Covid 19, Brexit and years of unhelpful or misinformed local and national government policy. We need to find the others and encourage them to join us.

We have to stop blaming each other and we need to unite to initiate meaningful change. Lets work together again, as a united group made up of all those who enjoy music, work with music, create music, or have anything remotely to do with music. Everyone has a piece of the puzzle. You have a piece of the puzzle. Here’s mine.

Our job is to find the others and make something happen.

If you are a musician or someone who works with musicians, here below is some of the current list of issues that everyone is having to face. It’s not good, and it doesn’t make for easy reading. If anyone has some good ideas about what we can all do, lets hear them. If anyone has found a better way, please share it with us. Let’s talk to one another and lets work together. Music will always find a way, and we need to be good to one another… and by that I mean we have to find a way to communicate, work and play together too. We have to find a way to take back control as a united group. We have to find the others or face the apocalypse. United we stand. There’s always something we can do.

Here it comes:

The British live music industry brings in £500m to the UK economy. But the cost to the sector of bringing in £500m is just over £499m — leaving a profit margin of just 0.2 per cent. This, shockingly, is despite more than 22 million of us enjoying live music performances every year. It is fair to say that, without urgent action from the government, we could lose a number of important community assets that account for over 30,000 jobs and an incalculable music heritage in towns and cities in every part of the country. And from my perspective as a Musicians Tour Manager, most artists that I work with look to income from live performance as their biggest regular opportunity to earn money from their music. The current financial outlook is grim for almost everyone.

City bar closes after 16 months citing ‘unforeseen circumstances’ https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/birmingham-bar-closes-after-16-29377592

There’s frustratingly little discussion of our music and nighttime industries in this election buff.ly/4b34jC5

Spiking costs and ‘apex predators’: Inside the UK’s music festival crisis. “It’s carnage,” says one music festival organiser. “People are fighting tooth and nail,” says another. “Something needs to happen because this isn’t working anymore.” buff.ly/3VMRKGW

UK Music sets out priorities of the music industry ahead of general election buff.ly/4bSWZdy

UK Music wants politicians to devise a national music strategy buff.ly/4b5b4nf

Face the music of Brexit barriers. ‘Face the Music’ campaign is urging politicians to find solutions for UK artistes trying to tour in Europe after Brexit buff.ly/3yW5rKm

100+ UK festivals will shut down this year – who’s left? – RouteNote Blog buff.ly/4bTpgAi

UK Music calls on MPs to fix European touring crisis – Access All Areas buff.ly/4bErDat

Towersey Festival, UK’s longest running independent, to bow out after 60 years. Operators said this year’s edition of the UK’s longest-running independent music festival will be the last, due to spiralling costs buff.ly/4bOBgDg

‘People are forfeiting meals’: musicians on the struggle to financially survive buff.ly/3ylxYZG

The Scots band using their DIY touring experience to help with Brexit red tape buff.ly/4dCFdN8

What support do you need when working or thinking about working in the EU? Take Part in the MU’s New Survey on Touring in the EU Post Brexit buff.ly/44mt1f7

‘The working class can’t afford it’: the shocking truth about the money bands make on tour. Musicians these days face pitiful fees and frequent losses. What can be done about it? buff.ly/3xRvsdD

Visa fees for international artists to tour in the US shot up 250% in April. It could be devastating buff.ly/3Ws3DCX

Musicians busk along city centre to protest Brexit touring rules buff.ly/4aWSLAH

UK dance music industry pens open letter urging young people to vote. over six million young people did not vote in the last election, and more than half of those aged 18-34 were not even registered to vote buff.ly/4b2frQc

All Musicians, artists, performers + MU Midlands Members Urged to Attend Public Meeting to Fight Birmingham City Council Cuts. If you live or work in Birmingham, join us on Sat 27th April for Brum Rise Up to resist cuts buff.ly/3xK6eOf

The United Kingdom Faces Many Cancellations Of Music Festivals buff.ly/3UphNTQ

Budget slammed as a “missed opportunity” by UK live music industry buff.ly/3xLSZwo

Music touring and my career in the industry buff.ly/4b1I9km

Top musicians could disappear unless EU touring issues solved, says MP buff.ly/4aWDJeo

UK Sounds: PRS Foundation Launches New Initiative to Support UK Music Export buff.ly/49AQfyX

The music industry is dying! – the effect of Brexit https://northeastbylines.co.uk/the-music-industry-is-dying-the-effect-of-brexit/

Brexit Blues: UK Music Industry Suffers as Artists Face Touring Turmoil buff.ly/4ailv6M

British Music Artists Get Post-Brexit Break, With Europe Touring Regulations Eased buff.ly/3uXMfdO

‘The whole ecosystem is collapsing’: inside the crisis in Britain’s live music scene https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/mar/01/the-whole-ecosystem-is-collapsing-inside-the-crisis-in-britains-live-music-scene

Further festival cancellations – Connect & 110 Above. “The current economic climate means it would be reckless to plough on with such uncertainty and volatile costs – particularly for a fully independent festival” buff.ly/3V0sq08

Brexit: despatches from the downside. The government is starting to give the impression of behaving like the sorcerer’s apprentice, having conjured up forces in Brexit that it doesn’t understand and can’t control. buff.ly/3uIDCUr

AIF Launches 5% for festivals scheme to save UK festivals. This World-leading industry still suffers due to issues around Covid and Brexit, making maintaining a UK festival even more difficult than ever buff.ly/48xEWH

‘UK’s position as live music leader at stake’: nine festivals cancel amid rising costs. Standon Calling among events scheduled for 2024 to call time or postpone amid fears of impact on new talent buff.ly/49MjU8W

UK music festivals at ‘critical point’ as more events cancelled. Covid pandemic, Brexit, the war in Ukraine and cost of living crisis are all cited as contributing factors towards a looming crisis for UK festivals buff.ly/3SSrbxj

Flagship venues and grassroots arts across Birmingham hit by ‘devastating’ cuts buff.ly/4bOtGcE

Birmingham City Council announce “alarming” culture budget cuts buff.ly/4bMyD5C

Brexit may be ‘terminal’ for UK music industry, top academy principal warns buff.ly/3PgAuGr

Face The Music Petition. European Movement launches campaign to shine spotlight on plight of musicians post-Brexit buff.ly/3I7GvBd

European Movement launches campaign to shine spotlight on plight of musicians post-Brexit buff.ly/3I5Wyzs

US visa petition fees for international touring musicians to increase by over 120 per cent buff.ly/3T69KdW

Ministers urged to ‘call Paul and Ringo’ over touring musician tax forms buff.ly/42TpyUv

Opera singer David Butt Philip on how Brexit is impacting British musicians buff.ly/49f3RAD

Introduce ticket levy on sponsors of large music venues to support grassroots music venues – Sign the Petition! chng.it/WM6Ck998

Brexit’s bum note: UK orchestras hit by new touring tax. Musicians fear European tours could become unviable under the new regime. buff.ly/3RSw6xB

Brexit has been bad for the UK economy, majority of Britons believe buff.ly/4aD235G

UK to lose 10 per cent of grassroots venues in 2023, as calls grow for rest of industry to invest buff.ly/461GZ5Z

The first report of the 2023 Musicians’ Census has just been released and gives a detailed insight into the demographic makeup of UK musicians, the barriers to career progression and economic challenges buff.ly/3LxL0ag

Brexit continues to hurt UK Musicians and Crew – Hypebot buff.ly/3r7B6oK

Brexit batters incomes of over 80% of UK touring musicians, as calls mount for immediate government action buff.ly/45JNk5T

UK Musicians’ Census reveals insights on earnings and career barriers buff.ly/3rhkDhR

Nearly half of working UK musicians earn less than £14k, new census finds buff.ly/46ug3fl

‘The buildings were a sign of civic pride’: anger as art colleges around the UK close their doors buff.ly/3RkQvNf

Campaigners blame Brexit for drop in European artists playing UK festivals buff.ly/46fBhgB

UK Music and FanFair Alliance deliver their latest calls for reform buff.ly/3ZexfD3

Third of UK musicians earn less than £14k buff.ly/3r51eRn

The Brexit deal has been devastating for touring UK musicians – but this can be rectified https://buff.ly/44DKv56

More Than 80% Of UK Musicians Touring EU Have Seen Brexit Hit Their Earnings

UK musicians’ tour earnings plummet thanks to Brexit

UK Music survey: 82% of artists touring EU say Brexit has hit earnings

Ash’s Tim Wheeler: ‘It’s such a pain in the arse, Brexit’ https://buff.ly/3L2nPVq

Future UK-EU negotiations should discuss the adoption of a cultural passport for the creative industries.

Study Reveals Brexit’s Impact on UK Musicians – Ludwig Van Daily buff.ly/3ONcDNm

British musicians say they are losing out on gigs and jobs in Europe since Brexit buff.ly/3Pju6i1

‘The government has been asleep on the job’: report reveals almost half of UK musicians working less in Europe than before Brexit buff.ly/3P8v3cQ

Almost 50 per cent of UK musicians working less in Europe after Brexit buff.ly/3Ean2h9

Nearly half of UK musicians have lost work in Europe following Brexit, stark report reveals buff.ly/3KQ80kf

Brexit sees UK musicians’s work dry up in EU: ‘It’s killing us’ buff.ly/45nesaG

Quarter of music industry workers have had no work in EU since Brexit buff.ly/3ONHeKy

How to ensure your post-Brexit travel to the EU is seamless buff.ly/3Ea4ygN

Nearly 28% of music industry workers have had no work in EU since Brexit – Access All Areas buff.ly/44wK7pe

Labour MP hits out at ‘massively damaging’ issue facing musicians coming to Scotland buff.ly/47mdM6W

Brussels tells EU states: Ignore UK on post-Brexit trade buff.ly/3DSymOU

Over 80% of UK musicians report loss of earnings due to Brexit | News | ArtsProfessional

Brexit red tape ties up musicians touring EU and cuts into earnings

Post-Brexit talent visa gets just three applicants in two years

Stereophonics’ Kelly Jones Criticizes the Use of AI in Music Industry buff.ly/45drnfc

Visa fee increase for international touring musicians delayed by US government buff.ly/3QbXaZp

UK Music – Study raises questions over unintended effects of constraining British artists to domestic tours post-Brexit. – Birmingham Music Network buff.ly/474bQ2U

How Brexit crippled touring for UK musicians buff.ly/44BZInS

UK music brought in €7.7bn in tourism – but is the scene healthy? buff.ly/3NW8lmk

Brexit adding extra stress to concert promoters – Soundsphere magazine buff.ly/3O59DM6

Live Music Research – Researching the business and culture of live music buff.ly/44G9p4C

UK live music revenue to hit all-time high this year – Access All Areas buff.ly/44sol6g

‘I can’t keep making a loss’: bands shun UK festivals as touring costs rise. Musicians say they can’t afford to go on the road any more, while smaller events are cut back or cancelled

Event professionals. There has been expectation that those looking to break into the industry carry the financial burden of inadequate budgets, and endure long hours, below acceptable welfare conditions, and undefined outcomes. buff.ly/3Css9IO

Trent Reznor Gives Update on Future of Nine Inch Nails. “The importance of music — or lack of importance of music — in today’s world, from my perspective, is a little defeating”

Lords committee urges end to Brexit barriers for musicians and young people buff.ly/44gUhuX

Parliament opens debate on the devastating impact of Brexit  buff.ly/3n67p5D

Ice Cube says AI is demonic and its use in music will spark a backlash: ‘Somebody can’t take your original voice and manipulate it without having to pay.’ buff.ly/3Wt15SZ

Britain’s ever-harsher welfare system means that now only the rich can afford to make art | Alex Niven

The Carry On Touring Campaign

Why UK Bands Playing in Europe Are Booing Brexit buff.ly/3OYvJ4L

Musicians left ‘sad and humiliated’ by disaster of post-Brexit travel for gigs buff.ly/3pQx1V3

Noel Gallagher blasts Brexit: ‘absolute disaster’ buff.ly/43aR4fl

Blur frontman: ‘Brexit was a travesty for young musicians’ buff.ly/3MSist4

Blur’s Damon Albarn labels Brexit a “disaster” buff.ly/3BSXqEg

Midnight Sun Festival launch cancelled.“Rising costs and limited availability on festival infrastructure, as well as the cost of living crisis having an impact on ticket sales means that we are not in the position to deliver the event” buff.ly/421uncy

The Government-backed Live Events Reinsurance Scheme, designed to offer live events operators cover during the Covid-19 pandemic, paid out just one single claim of £180,500 while generating nearly £6m in premiums to cover 169 events buff.ly/3NipTKJ

David Furnish slams Brexit red tape amid slump in UK acts at EU festivals

Musicians left devastated as Brexit takes toll on travel for gigs | The National

EU Provides Clarity Regarding Portable Musical Instruments and Associated ATA Carnet Requirements

The art of Brexterity: the vandalism of one of the UK’s most profitable sectors

Simon Rattle is right: Britain is becoming a cultural desert – and that’s a political choice | Martin Kettle. The arts and classical music say much about us as a country. We will need to fight for their place in our national life

Simon Rattle: UK classical music is fighting for life after ‘swingeing’ funding cuts

37% of young festival-goers put off by increased prices – Access All Areas buff.ly/3AcFLGS

Musician explains why AI will never be able to replicate art & music as humans do ‘Disappointed feeling that there are smart people out there that actually think the artistic act is so mundane that it can be replicated by a machine,’ https://scoop.upworthy.com/musician-explains-why-ai-wont-be-able-to-replicate-art-like-humans-do

Ukrainian orchestra’s key members refused visas to play in UK buff.ly/3KXkmaQ

German band ‘refused entry to UK in Brexit rules row’ buff.ly/3UVnrM8

Glasgow venue ‘struggling’ as Brexit rules are ‘killing’ independent music scene buff.ly/3Ado89Q

Britain is a dying nation in need of new curators | Stewart Lee buff.ly/3GXyZIZ

In Brexit Britain, the arts are being treated as hobbyist luxuries for the independently wealthy. A day job is a reality for many it’s how artists, writers, & musicians, not blessed with independent or inherited wealth, keep themselves afloat buff.ly/40kVtdP

Dominion Festival debut cancelled with only 5% of tickets sold – Access All Areas buff.ly/3Lh3g8c

Ian MacKaye on the “depressing” state of the music industry https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/ian-mackaye-depressing-state-of-the-music-industry/

New US visa 260% price hike will impose further pain on UK touring musicians buff.ly/3okKpzT

British Musicians Suffer from the Cost of Living Crisis – Skipping a Meal, Performing Less, and Finding a New Job Is on Today’s Agenda buff.ly/40qUqc1

Music by the many for the many – SAM SWEEK highlights the devastation Government policies have visited on the music industry
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/f/music-by-the-many-for-the-many

Government accepts key Committee recommendations to provide greater transparency on music streaming work and a more proactive approach to cultural policy
https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/378/digital-culture-media-and-sport-committee/news/194466/government-accepts-key-committee-recommendations-to-provide-greater-transparency-on-music-streaming-work-and-a-more-proactive-approach-to-cultural-policy/

38 Million tracks on music streaming services were played ZERO times in 2022. Nearly a quarter (24%) of the 158 million tracks on music streaming services monitored by Luminate in 2022 attracted ZERO plays that year. That’s approximately 38 million tracks
https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/38-million-tracks-on-music-streaming-service-were-played-zero-times-in-2022-elon-musks-book/

Robomagic’s James Massing on putting artists and the planet first
https://accessaa.co.uk/robomagics-james-massing-on-putting-artists-and-the-planet-first/

Festival Lab 2023 course to tackle lack of diversity in festival industry – Access All Areas
https://accessaa.co.uk/festival-lab-2023-course-to-tackle-lack-of-diversity-in-festival-industry/

UK Music calls on Chancellor to back eight-point plan for jobs and growth | M Magazine
https://www.prsformusic.com/m-magazine/news/uk-music-calls-on-chancellor-to-back-eight-point-plan-for-jobs-and-growth

U.S. Visa Hike May Impact Future Mobility of Touring Musicians
https://americansongwriter.com/u-s-visa-hike-may-impact-future-mobility-of-touring-musicians/

Music venues and clubs warn of mass closures after government spring budget revealed
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venues-and-clubs-warn-of-mass-closures-after-government-spring-budget-revealed-3414142

The Price of Music: Artists explain how the monumental expenses of touring make it an unfeasible reality
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/the-price-of-music-artists-touring/

British Musicians Suffer from the Cost of Living Crisis – OperaWire ?
https://operawire.com/criticism-on-fridays-british-musicians-suffer-from-the-cost-of-living-crisis/

The economy is so bad for British musicians that 25% are having to skip meals – Alan Cross
https://www.ajournalofmusicalthings.com/the-economy-is-so-bad-for-british-musicians-that-25-are-having-to-skip-meals/

British musicians forced to cancel US tours as visa costs rise
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2023/03/01/british-musicians-forced-cancel-us-tours-visa-costs-rise-badenoch/

Music Venue Trust calls on local councils to help save gig spaces after Preston City Council gives £150k to Own Our Venues scheme
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venue-trust-calls-on-local-councils-to-help-save-gig-spaces-after-preston-city-council-gives-150k-to-own-our-venues-scheme-3411676

Cost of living and last minute gig-goer decisions “a perfect storm” for grassroots music venues
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venues-grassroots-uk-gigs-cancelled-fans-last-minute-cost-of-living-3391412

Leaked letter: ‘A toxic culture of fear and paranoia’ at the BBC, from the D-G down – SlippediscSlippedisc | The inside track on classical music and related cultures, by Norman Lebrecht
https://slippedisc.com/2023/03/leaked-letter-a-toxic-culture-of-fear-and-paranoia-at-the-bbc-from-the-d-g-down/

Artists in UK public sector making far below minimum wage, survey finds | Arts funding | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2023/mar/12/artists-in-uk-public-sector-making-far-below-minimum-wage-survey-finds

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet
https://ironmanrecords.net/2022/07/tour-management-crossing-the-uk-eu-border-using-a-carnet/

Tour Management: Going to Ireland and crossing the UK/EU Border using a Carnet
https://ironmanrecords.net/2022/11/tour-management-going-to-ireland-and-crossing-the-uk-eu-border-using-a-carnet/

German punk band Trigger Cut refused entry to UK to tour because of Brexit
https://louderthanwar.com/german-punk-band-trigger-cut-refused-entry-to-uk-to-tour-because-of-brexit-bullshit/

German punk band ‘humiliated’ after being refused UK entry due to post-Brexit rules
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/apr/10/german-punk-band-humiliated-after-being-refused-uk-entry-due-to-post-brexit-rules?

In Conversation with Dodgy’s Nigel Clark: all things Britpop, Billie Eilish, and why Britain just isn’t being ‘Good Enough’ to its musicians – The Mancunion
https://mancunion.com/2023/03/10/in-conversation-with-dodgys-nigel-clark/

Bandcamp Friday – If you have the means to do so, please support Bandcamp Friday & buy direct from artists & labels. It’s a way to support independent musicians directly & sustain their work https://bandcamp.com/ And if you don’t have the means to make a purchase, leave a comment and share, share, share. Everything helps.

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The challenges facing Musicians in the UK

Musicians face numerous challenges in the post-Brexit landscape. These challenges have raised concerns, leading to considerations of potential career change and a call for government support.

Work Permits and Visas: Musicians can no longer travel and work freely across the EU, requiring work permits and visas for performances in certain countries. This leads to additional costs, paperwork, and potential limitations on touring.

Financial Impact: The music industry contributes significantly to the UK economy, and Brexit poses a threat to its success. Increased costs, potential losses in revenue from European tours, and additional financial burdens affect musicians’ livelihoods.

Uncertainty and Lack of Clarity: The lack of clarity surrounding post-Brexit regulations and the need for bilateral deals with certain EU member states create uncertainty for musicians. This impacts their ability to plan tours, navigate work permit requirements, and make informed decisions

Impact on Live Sector and Music Tourism: The live sector and music tourism may be affected, with potential declines in international collaborations, fewer European acts traveling to the UK, and a negative impact on music tourism.

Iron Man Records Rehearsal Space

City bar closes after 16 months citing ‘unforeseen circumstances’ https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/whats-on/music-nightlife-news/birmingham-bar-closes-after-16-29377592

There’s frustratingly little discussion of our music and nighttime industries in this election buff.ly/4b34jC5

Spiking costs and ‘apex predators’: Inside the UK’s music festival crisis. “It’s carnage,” says one music festival organiser. “People are fighting tooth and nail,” says another. “Something needs to happen because this isn’t working anymore.” buff.ly/3VMRKGW

UK Music sets out priorities of the music industry ahead of general election buff.ly/4bSWZdy

UK Music wants politicians to devise a national music strategy buff.ly/4b5b4nf

Face the music of Brexit barriers. ‘Face the Music’ campaign is urging politicians to find solutions for UK artistes trying to tour in Europe after Brexit buff.ly/3yW5rKm

100+ UK festivals will shut down this year – who’s left? – RouteNote Blog buff.ly/4bTpgAi

UK Music calls on MPs to fix European touring crisis – Access All Areas buff.ly/4bErDat

Towersey Festival, UK’s longest running independent, to bow out after 60 years. Operators said this year’s edition of the UK’s longest-running independent music festival will be the last, due to spiralling costs buff.ly/4bOBgDg

‘People are forfeiting meals’: musicians on the struggle to financially survive buff.ly/3ylxYZG

The Scots band using their DIY touring experience to help with Brexit red tape buff.ly/4dCFdN8

What support do you need when working or thinking about working in the EU? Take Part in the MU’s New Survey on Touring in the EU Post Brexit buff.ly/44mt1f7

‘The working class can’t afford it’: the shocking truth about the money bands make on tour. Musicians these days face pitiful fees and frequent losses. What can be done about it? buff.ly/3xRvsdD

Visa fees for international artists to tour in the US shot up 250% in April. It could be devastating buff.ly/3Ws3DCX

Musicians busk along city centre to protest Brexit touring rules buff.ly/4aWSLAH

UK dance music industry pens open letter urging young people to vote. over six million young people did not vote in the last election, and more than half of those aged 18-34 were not even registered to vote buff.ly/4b2frQc

All Musicians, artists, performers + MU Midlands Members Urged to Attend Public Meeting to Fight Birmingham City Council Cuts. If you live or work in Birmingham, join us on Sat 27th April for Brum Rise Up to resist cuts buff.ly/3xK6eOf

The United Kingdom Faces Many Cancellations Of Music Festivals buff.ly/3UphNTQ

Budget slammed as a “missed opportunity” by UK live music industry buff.ly/3xLSZwo

Music touring and my career in the industry buff.ly/4b1I9km

Top musicians could disappear unless EU touring issues solved, says MP buff.ly/4aWDJeo

UK Sounds: PRS Foundation Launches New Initiative to Support UK Music Export buff.ly/49AQfyX

The music industry is dying! – the effect of Brexit https://northeastbylines.co.uk/the-music-industry-is-dying-the-effect-of-brexit/

Brexit Blues: UK Music Industry Suffers as Artists Face Touring Turmoil buff.ly/4ailv6M

British Music Artists Get Post-Brexit Break, With Europe Touring Regulations Eased buff.ly/3uXMfdO

‘The whole ecosystem is collapsing’: inside the crisis in Britain’s live music scene https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/mar/01/the-whole-ecosystem-is-collapsing-inside-the-crisis-in-britains-live-music-scene

Further festival cancellations – Connect & 110 Above. “The current economic climate means it would be reckless to plough on with such uncertainty and volatile costs – particularly for a fully independent festival” buff.ly/3V0sq08

Brexit: despatches from the downside. The government is starting to give the impression of behaving like the sorcerer’s apprentice, having conjured up forces in Brexit that it doesn’t understand and can’t control. buff.ly/3uIDCUr

AIF Launches 5% for festivals scheme to save UK festivals. This World-leading industry still suffers due to issues around Covid and Brexit, making maintaining a UK festival even more difficult than ever buff.ly/48xEWH

‘UK’s position as live music leader at stake’: nine festivals cancel amid rising costs. Standon Calling among events scheduled for 2024 to call time or postpone amid fears of impact on new talent buff.ly/49MjU8W

UK music festivals at ‘critical point’ as more events cancelled. Covid pandemic, Brexit, the war in Ukraine and cost of living crisis are all cited as contributing factors towards a looming crisis for UK festivals buff.ly/3SSrbxj

Flagship venues and grassroots arts across Birmingham hit by ‘devastating’ cuts buff.ly/4bOtGcE

Birmingham City Council announce “alarming” culture budget cuts buff.ly/4bMyD5C

Brexit may be ‘terminal’ for UK music industry, top academy principal warns buff.ly/3PgAuGr

Face The Music Petition. European Movement launches campaign to shine spotlight on plight of musicians post-Brexit buff.ly/3I7GvBd

European Movement launches campaign to shine spotlight on plight of musicians post-Brexit buff.ly/3I5Wyzs

US visa petition fees for international touring musicians to increase by over 120 per cent buff.ly/3T69KdW

Ministers urged to ‘call Paul and Ringo’ over touring musician tax forms buff.ly/42TpyUv

Opera singer David Butt Philip on how Brexit is impacting British musicians buff.ly/49f3RAD

Introduce ticket levy on sponsors of large music venues to support grassroots music venues – Sign the Petition! chng.it/WM6Ck998

Brexit’s bum note: UK orchestras hit by new touring tax. Musicians fear European tours could become unviable under the new regime. buff.ly/3RSw6xB

Brexit has been bad for the UK economy, majority of Britons believe buff.ly/4aD235G

If you spot any other articles worth sharing with Musicians please email the link/url and follow us https://twitter.com/BirminghamMN

 

 

The brutal truth to earning a living as a Musician in 2023

Birmingham Music Network works with the local music community to stimulate growth, inspire, and share knowledge. We offer practical based industry experience and are not genre specific.

Being a musician involves composing, conducting, or performing music as a profession or as a hobby. Musicians create, perform, and interpret music in various styles, either alone or as part of a group or ensemble. A music performer is generally either a singer who provides vocals or an instrumentalist who plays a musical instrument. Musicians may specialise in different styles of music depending on their background, training, and interests. Additionally, being a musician may involve recording and releasing music as a recording artist, which involves creating both a musical work and a sound recording protected by copyright. Ultimately, being a musician is a passion for creating and sharing music with others. But it’s not easy to earn a living as a musician.

Musicians, like all of us, are facing the biggest decline in living standards in living memory. Millions of people up and down the country are now dependent on foodbanks, with over 100,000 having to access warm banks each week and many more are taking on multiple jobs just to keep the radiators on in their homes and to put food on their table.

Over a decade of austerity, cuts and the Covid-19 pandemic has taken its toll on almost every single aspect of modern society. The lasting negative impact of the cost of living crisis remains to be seen but, for the live music and entertainment industry, it may just be the latest hammerblow to a sector where serious financial issues have gone unaddressed for too long.

Last month, the Music Venues Trust released its annual report for the year 2022 which highlighted the fragility of the British live music industry, which brings in £500m to the UK economy and has a total sector expenditure of just over £499m — leaving a profit margin of just 0.2 per cent.

This, shockingly, is despite 22 million of us enjoying live music performances last year.

It is fair to say that, without urgent action from the government, we could lose a number of important community assets that account for over 30,000 jobs and an incalculable music heritage in towns and cities in every part of the country.

UK to lose 10 per cent of grassroots venues in 2023, as calls grow for rest of industry to invest buff.ly/461GZ5Z

The first report of the 2023 Musicians’ Census has just been released and gives a detailed insight into the demographic makeup of UK musicians, the barriers to career progression and economic challenges buff.ly/3LxL0ag

Brexit continues to hurt UK Musicians and Crew – Hypebot buff.ly/3r7B6oK

Brexit batters incomes of over 80% of UK touring musicians, as calls mount for immediate government action buff.ly/45JNk5T

UK Musicians’ Census reveals insights on earnings and career barriers buff.ly/3rhkDhR

Nearly half of working UK musicians earn less than £14k, new census finds buff.ly/46ug3fl

‘The buildings were a sign of civic pride’: anger as art colleges around the UK close their doors buff.ly/3RkQvNf

Campaigners blame Brexit for drop in European artists playing UK festivals buff.ly/46fBhgB

UK Music and FanFair Alliance deliver their latest calls for reform buff.ly/3ZexfD3

Third of UK musicians earn less than £14k buff.ly/3r51eRn

The Brexit deal has been devastating for touring UK musicians – but this can be rectified https://buff.ly/44DKv56

More Than 80% Of UK Musicians Touring EU Have Seen Brexit Hit Their Earnings

UK musicians’ tour earnings plummet thanks to Brexit

UK Music survey: 82% of artists touring EU say Brexit has hit earnings

Ash’s Tim Wheeler: ‘It’s such a pain in the arse, Brexit’ https://buff.ly/3L2nPVq

Future UK-EU negotiations should discuss the adoption of a cultural passport for the creative industries.

Study Reveals Brexit’s Impact on UK Musicians – Ludwig Van Daily buff.ly/3ONcDNm

British musicians say they are losing out on gigs and jobs in Europe since Brexit buff.ly/3Pju6i1

‘The government has been asleep on the job’: report reveals almost half of UK musicians working less in Europe than before Brexit buff.ly/3P8v3cQ

Almost 50 per cent of UK musicians working less in Europe after Brexit buff.ly/3Ean2h9

Nearly half of UK musicians have lost work in Europe following Brexit, stark report reveals buff.ly/3KQ80kf

Brexit sees UK musicians’s work dry up in EU: ‘It’s killing us’ buff.ly/45nesaG

Quarter of music industry workers have had no work in EU since Brexit buff.ly/3ONHeKy

How to ensure your post-Brexit travel to the EU is seamless buff.ly/3Ea4ygN

Nearly 28% of music industry workers have had no work in EU since Brexit – Access All Areas buff.ly/44wK7pe

Labour MP hits out at ‘massively damaging’ issue facing musicians coming to Scotland buff.ly/47mdM6W

Brussels tells EU states: Ignore UK on post-Brexit trade buff.ly/3DSymOU

Over 80% of UK musicians report loss of earnings due to Brexit | News | ArtsProfessional

Brexit red tape ties up musicians touring EU and cuts into earnings

Post-Brexit talent visa gets just three applicants in two years

Stereophonics’ Kelly Jones Criticizes the Use of AI in Music Industry buff.ly/45drnfc

Visa fee increase for international touring musicians delayed by US government buff.ly/3QbXaZp

UK Music – Study raises questions over unintended effects of constraining British artists to domestic tours post-Brexit. – Birmingham Music Network buff.ly/474bQ2U

How Brexit crippled touring for UK musicians buff.ly/44BZInS

UK music brought in €7.7bn in tourism – but is the scene healthy? buff.ly/3NW8lmk

Brexit adding extra stress to concert promoters – Soundsphere magazine buff.ly/3O59DM6

Live Music Research – Researching the business and culture of live music buff.ly/44G9p4C

UK live music revenue to hit all-time high this year – Access All Areas buff.ly/44sol6g

‘I can’t keep making a loss’: bands shun UK festivals as touring costs rise. Musicians say they can’t afford to go on the road any more, while smaller events are cut back or cancelled

Event professionals. There has been expectation that those looking to break into the industry carry the financial burden of inadequate budgets, and endure long hours, below acceptable welfare conditions, and undefined outcomes. buff.ly/3Css9IO

Trent Reznor Gives Update on Future of Nine Inch Nails. “The importance of music — or lack of importance of music — in today’s world, from my perspective, is a little defeating”

Lords committee urges end to Brexit barriers for musicians and young people buff.ly/44gUhuX

Parliament opens debate on the devastating impact of Brexit  buff.ly/3n67p5D

Ice Cube says AI is demonic and its use in music will spark a backlash: ‘Somebody can’t take your original voice and manipulate it without having to pay.’ buff.ly/3Wt15SZ

Britain’s ever-harsher welfare system means that now only the rich can afford to make art | Alex Niven

The Carry On Touring Campaign

Why UK Bands Playing in Europe Are Booing Brexit buff.ly/3OYvJ4L

Musicians left ‘sad and humiliated’ by disaster of post-Brexit travel for gigs buff.ly/3pQx1V3

Noel Gallagher blasts Brexit: ‘absolute disaster’ buff.ly/43aR4fl

Blur frontman: ‘Brexit was a travesty for young musicians’ buff.ly/3MSist4

Blur’s Damon Albarn labels Brexit a “disaster” buff.ly/3BSXqEg

Midnight Sun Festival launch cancelled.“Rising costs and limited availability on festival infrastructure, as well as the cost of living crisis having an impact on ticket sales means that we are not in the position to deliver the event” buff.ly/421uncy

The Government-backed Live Events Reinsurance Scheme, designed to offer live events operators cover during the Covid-19 pandemic, paid out just one single claim of £180,500 while generating nearly £6m in premiums to cover 169 events buff.ly/3NipTKJ

David Furnish slams Brexit red tape amid slump in UK acts at EU festivals

Musicians left devastated as Brexit takes toll on travel for gigs | The National

EU Provides Clarity Regarding Portable Musical Instruments and Associated ATA Carnet Requirements

The art of Brexterity: the vandalism of one of the UK’s most profitable sectors

Simon Rattle is right: Britain is becoming a cultural desert – and that’s a political choice | Martin Kettle. The arts and classical music say much about us as a country. We will need to fight for their place in our national life

Simon Rattle: UK classical music is fighting for life after ‘swingeing’ funding cuts

37% of young festival-goers put off by increased prices – Access All Areas buff.ly/3AcFLGS

Musician explains why AI will never be able to replicate art & music as humans do ‘Disappointed feeling that there are smart people out there that actually think the artistic act is so mundane that it can be replicated by a machine,’ https://scoop.upworthy.com/musician-explains-why-ai-wont-be-able-to-replicate-art-like-humans-do

Ukrainian orchestra’s key members refused visas to play in UK buff.ly/3KXkmaQ

German band ‘refused entry to UK in Brexit rules row’ buff.ly/3UVnrM8

Glasgow venue ‘struggling’ as Brexit rules are ‘killing’ independent music scene buff.ly/3Ado89Q

Britain is a dying nation in need of new curators | Stewart Lee buff.ly/3GXyZIZ

In Brexit Britain, the arts are being treated as hobbyist luxuries for the independently wealthy. A day job is a reality for many it’s how artists, writers, & musicians, not blessed with independent or inherited wealth, keep themselves afloat buff.ly/40kVtdP

Dominion Festival debut cancelled with only 5% of tickets sold – Access All Areas buff.ly/3Lh3g8c

Ian MacKaye on the “depressing” state of the music industry https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/ian-mackaye-depressing-state-of-the-music-industry/

New US visa 260% price hike will impose further pain on UK touring musicians buff.ly/3okKpzT

British Musicians Suffer from the Cost of Living Crisis – Skipping a Meal, Performing Less, and Finding a New Job Is on Today’s Agenda buff.ly/40qUqc1

Music by the many for the many – SAM SWEEK highlights the devastation Government policies have visited on the music industry
https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/f/music-by-the-many-for-the-many

Government accepts key Committee recommendations to provide greater transparency on music streaming work and a more proactive approach to cultural policy
https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/378/digital-culture-media-and-sport-committee/news/194466/government-accepts-key-committee-recommendations-to-provide-greater-transparency-on-music-streaming-work-and-a-more-proactive-approach-to-cultural-policy/

38 Million tracks on music streaming services were played ZERO times in 2022. Nearly a quarter (24%) of the 158 million tracks on music streaming services monitored by Luminate in 2022 attracted ZERO plays that year. That’s approximately 38 million tracks
https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/38-million-tracks-on-music-streaming-service-were-played-zero-times-in-2022-elon-musks-book/

Robomagic’s James Massing on putting artists and the planet first
https://accessaa.co.uk/robomagics-james-massing-on-putting-artists-and-the-planet-first/

Festival Lab 2023 course to tackle lack of diversity in festival industry – Access All Areas
https://accessaa.co.uk/festival-lab-2023-course-to-tackle-lack-of-diversity-in-festival-industry/

UK Music calls on Chancellor to back eight-point plan for jobs and growth | M Magazine
https://www.prsformusic.com/m-magazine/news/uk-music-calls-on-chancellor-to-back-eight-point-plan-for-jobs-and-growth

U.S. Visa Hike May Impact Future Mobility of Touring Musicians
https://americansongwriter.com/u-s-visa-hike-may-impact-future-mobility-of-touring-musicians/

Music venues and clubs warn of mass closures after government spring budget revealed
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venues-and-clubs-warn-of-mass-closures-after-government-spring-budget-revealed-3414142

The Price of Music: Artists explain how the monumental expenses of touring make it an unfeasible reality
https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/the-price-of-music-artists-touring/

British Musicians Suffer from the Cost of Living Crisis – OperaWire ?
https://operawire.com/criticism-on-fridays-british-musicians-suffer-from-the-cost-of-living-crisis/

The economy is so bad for British musicians that 25% are having to skip meals – Alan Cross
https://www.ajournalofmusicalthings.com/the-economy-is-so-bad-for-british-musicians-that-25-are-having-to-skip-meals/

British musicians forced to cancel US tours as visa costs rise
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2023/03/01/british-musicians-forced-cancel-us-tours-visa-costs-rise-badenoch/

Music Venue Trust calls on local councils to help save gig spaces after Preston City Council gives £150k to Own Our Venues scheme
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venue-trust-calls-on-local-councils-to-help-save-gig-spaces-after-preston-city-council-gives-150k-to-own-our-venues-scheme-3411676

Cost of living and last minute gig-goer decisions “a perfect storm” for grassroots music venues
https://www.nme.com/news/music/music-venues-grassroots-uk-gigs-cancelled-fans-last-minute-cost-of-living-3391412

Leaked letter: ‘A toxic culture of fear and paranoia’ at the BBC, from the D-G down – SlippediscSlippedisc | The inside track on classical music and related cultures, by Norman Lebrecht
https://slippedisc.com/2023/03/leaked-letter-a-toxic-culture-of-fear-and-paranoia-at-the-bbc-from-the-d-g-down/

Artists in UK public sector making far below minimum wage, survey finds | Arts funding | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2023/mar/12/artists-in-uk-public-sector-making-far-below-minimum-wage-survey-finds

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet
https://ironmanrecords.net/2022/07/tour-management-crossing-the-uk-eu-border-using-a-carnet/

Tour Management: Going to Ireland and crossing the UK/EU Border using a Carnet
https://ironmanrecords.net/2022/11/tour-management-going-to-ireland-and-crossing-the-uk-eu-border-using-a-carnet/

German punk band Trigger Cut refused entry to UK to tour because of Brexit
https://louderthanwar.com/german-punk-band-trigger-cut-refused-entry-to-uk-to-tour-because-of-brexit-bullshit/

German punk band ‘humiliated’ after being refused UK entry due to post-Brexit rules
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/apr/10/german-punk-band-humiliated-after-being-refused-uk-entry-due-to-post-brexit-rules?

In Conversation with Dodgy’s Nigel Clark: all things Britpop, Billie Eilish, and why Britain just isn’t being ‘Good Enough’ to its musicians – The Mancunion
https://mancunion.com/2023/03/10/in-conversation-with-dodgys-nigel-clark/

Let me be clear. If you don’t buy direct from Artists and Musicians, and if you don’t buy physical products from Artists and Musicians, those Artists and Musicians you like won’t be able to survive much longer. Please make your purchases now or make your way to the exit as the store will have to close soon. You have the power to keep Artists and Musicians in work. Think what you are doing. And if you don’t act, those subscription services you like so much…. might just be all that will be left.

Bandcamp Friday – If you have the means to do so, please support Bandcamp Friday & buy direct from artists & labels. It’s a way to support independent musicians directly & sustain their work https://bandcamp.com/ And if you don’t have the means to make a purchase, leave a comment and share, share, share. Everything helps.

Subscribe to the Birmingham Music Network Newsletter on Substack here https://birminghammusicnetwork.substack.com/

If you find any other good articles worth sharing, get in touch.

Tweet us @BirminghamMN

The Industry Report 2023 by Entourage Pro Ltd.

The Industry Report 2023 has sought to provide some context around members hopes, fears and considerations on topics such as the cost-of-living crisis, mental health, diversity, prediction, industry sentiment and pay.

Entourage Pro Ltd, the world’s first free, verified crew network and entertainment industry research and insights company, has published a report based on member’s feeling and predictions for the year ahead.

In conjunction with technical industry measurement, and with input from the global freelance crew community, manufacturers, rental houses and key industry stakeholders from the live entertainment sector, The Industry Report 2023 has sought to provide some context around members hopes, fears and considerations on topics such as the cost-of-living crisis, mental health, diversity, prediction, industry sentiment and pay.

Over 1000 respondents took part in the survey, providing a comprehensive and detailed sample range for the purpose of the report.

Read the report here

“We’ve spent a lot of time speaking to industry bodies, crew members, suppliers, manufacturers and the wider music industry,” says Entourage Pro Director, Joel Perry. “Whilst there are some concerns for the year ahead, there is also a feeling of optimism. Areas such as education, people value, exploring new ways to build relationships and to undergo training, etc., are being brought to the forefront of attention and from this, as an industry, we are ready and able to react.”

“We’ve published results as they’ve come into us and remain impartial,” adds Entourage Pro co-director, James Stanbridge. “As we measure the industry in more detail moving forward, in terms of kit, market share, venues, and trend, we hope that this direct approach is helpful and useable to all segments of the industry.”

“Now is the perfect time to listen intently to the industry and those operating within it, and really act upon the issues and challenges we continue to face,” concludes Harvey Goldsmith, who joined the Entourage Pro board at the end of last year. “Where better to gain valuable insight than from those at the very sharp end of the experience economy, and who better to action change moving forward?”

To read the report, visit https://www.entouragepro.com/industry-report

Going to Ireland on Tour and crossing the UK/EU Border using a Carnet

If you have Tour Dates in Ireland and you’re travelling with a Carnet for your Musical Equipment, Mark at Iron Man Records explains how to keep it simple when crossing the UK/EU Border in a Splitter Van.

I took Sinead O’Brien to Ireland in October 2022 working as Tour Manager via Holyhead to Dublin Port. Here’s what I would recommend if you have Tour Dates to play, the UK/EU Border to cross, and a Carnet for Musical Equipment to deal with.

The first thing to do is book your Ferry as required. Be sure to buy a “Passenger” ticket for a 9 seater Splitter van as it is classified as a “passenger carrying vehicle.” Don’t go on a “Freight” ticket. I bought a Flexi ticket from Irish Ferries, it worked out £622.00 return. I chose Irish Ferries as their departure times were most suitable for our travel plans. But you can also go with Stena Line. I prefer Stena Line, but Irish Ferries worked out cheaper and sailed at the time we needed.

I chose a “Flexi” ticket as it’s valid for a year from date of purchase, ideal if plans change or there’s any delay with getting the Carnet stamped, and you need to move the booking to a different time. The ticket is also refundable if something happens. Don’t try and do the UK Carnet and Ferry on the same day. Always allow extra time in case something happens.

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

We travelled to Holyhead from London and did the Carnet on the way to the Hotel. We caught the ferry the following morning to be sure we didn’t get delayed handling the Carnet. When we arrived in Dublin Port we did the Carnet on the way to our first show. Luckily for us it didn’t take long. It was the same on the way back, We did Dublin Port Carnet and then the Ferry on the way back to Holyhead. We did the UK Carnet after we checked out of our hotel the following morning on the way back to London. Don’t try doing it all in one day, you will only get yourself in a mess. For those who haven’t used a Carnet before, you have to get 4 sets of stamps. One leaving UK, one entering Ireland/EU, one leaving Ireland/EU, and one last one returning to the UK. I advise getting each stamp within 24 hours of Travel across the Border.

ATA Carnet - How To Use

UK Outbound (Export)

If you are going to choose an Inland Border Facility to present your Carnet, there’s one at Holyhead, it’s off ?A55 Junction 2, almost next door to Premier Inn. The address is: Holyhead Interim Inland Border Facility Service, Parc Cybi, Holyhead LL65 2YQ

There are many Inland Border Facilities to choose from. You don’t need to book Holyhead in advance, you can turn up anytime you like. Holyhead inland border facility is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You only need to attend the inland border facility if you’re travelling through Holyhead and you’re moving goods:

– under the Common Transit Convention and you’re not using the services of an ACC to start or end your Transit movements
into the country under the Common Transit Convention and you’ve been instructed to report to a site for those goods to be checked

– excluding live animals, using an ATA Carnet

– excluding live animals, covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

In October, I used the Inland Border facility at Warrington as I had heard it was not very busy and a quick and easy turn around for Carnet processing. I also chose Warrington just in case Holyhead was busy or doing a “Stress Test” when I got there. However, there’s no point in me telling you about that here as Warrington Inland Border Facility is now permanantly closed. But I can give you some basic points about handling the Carnet when you get to Holyhead.

On arrival at Holyhead Inland Border facility, follow the instructions you are given. Remember to wear your High Vis when moving around in the truck park.

I use Rock-It Cargo when I need a Carnet. There are plenty of other companies you could use, some might be cheaper. I put The Carnet in the name of Iron Man Records Ltd at the Iron Man Records address. You can list yourself and any member of the band/crew as ‘named representatives’ so any member of the travelling group can present the Carnet. Here’s an example of the letter that should be contained in your ATA Carnet, probably folded up near the back somewhere.

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

You need to present ID with the Carnet to show you are either the holder or a named representative. This is what the front cover of the ATA Carnet looks like below. You can see the Border Force Stamp you will get and the clear statement that the “Intended use of Goods” will be as “Professional Equipment.”

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

Make sure the Green front page of the Carnet is signed by the Holder. Note that section H. Certificate by Customs at Departure b) Goods Examined shows as NO. It is unlikely you will have to have the goods examined but always allow extra time just in case.

In the past I have lost 4 hours while UK Border Force have gone through every item and checked every serial number and flight case. So be professional, polite, and just stay focussed. Do not try to be clever and start any conversation that may accidentally give UK Border Force a reason to inspect the items you are carrying. Say as little as possible. Don’t make jokes or make fun of the staff behind the window, or explain what a futile nonsense the Carnet system is. Try not to get angry. Answer the questions and don’t go off topic. Be respectful.

I have had to watch others in front of me regret their words when they are told they will have to be inspected after upsetting the staff. You don’t want to spend 4 hours dealing with an inspection and no one will care who you are, or how much of a hurry you are in, or whether you or your band is any good.

When leaving your country of origin, in this case you will be leaving the UK via Holyhead, fill out a Yellow “Exportation” voucher. If you look at the top right of the form you will see it says: Exportation Voucher Number 1. You can do all of this in advance but you must sign the yellow voucher in front of the clerk you are handing it to.

If you are using your Carnet for the first time, here’s a brief overview of the four Visits (All using Exportation Voucher 1) you will need to make to Inland Border Facilities. This is what you need to understand.

Validation: All ATA Carnets must be Validated by HMRC / BF before the first use (this will be done at the same time the Exportation Counterfoils and Vouchers are being endorsed.)

1. Exportation: this refers to UK goods leaving / exiting from the UK (Leaving UK Via Holyhead)

?2. Importation: this is entry into a country of temporary admission (working visit). (Arriving via Dublin Port, T11)

3. Re-exportation: this is the departure or exit from the country of temporary admission (Leaving via Dublin Port, Yard 3)

4. Re-importation: the return of goods to the UK  (Arriving UK via Holyhead)

Transit: transits are rarely used, but may be required if your goods are moving through one Carnet country en-route to another (i.e. driving through EU on the way to a working visit to Switzerland counts as Transit. Note that Changing flights does not count as transit). Russia and Switzerland may request transits in case the goods are inspected away from the national border.

Vouchers: Are completed by the holder and detached/removed form the Carnet by Customs officials. Vouchers serve as a Customs declaration and must be signed by the Holder

Counterfoils: Are completed by Customs and serve as receipt audit trail for each declaration lodged.

This is what you will need to complete on arrival at the Inland Border facility, see highlighted areas below:

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

D. Means of Transport: Your Number plate / Vehicle Registration

E. Packaging Details: Flight Cases etc

F. Temporary Export Declaration, section a) 1 – 82

Place: Holyhead

Date: 2022/11/23 (Note the date is backwards, year/month/day)

Name: Print your name, be sure you are listed as a named representative on the Carnet first.

Signature: Your usual Signature.

If you have a list of 82 items and you are taking all of them, you write 1-82 in the box marked F. Temporary Export Declaration, section a)

If, like with Sinead O’Brien, you have had to leave some items behind, write in the items 1-82 but excluding the missing items, like this: 1-40, 42-51, 53, 56-64, 66, 68, 75, 77-82

Here’s another example Carnet from 2018, you can see the boxes to complete. The sheet is marked EXPORTATION.

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

You should also have copies of your general list in case of inspection. This would be your items 1-82 or whatever you are carrying with you in the Vehicle.

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

You may be asked for a GMR (Goods Movement Reference). As I understand it, you don’t need one because you are NOT freight. Your are travelling in a “passenger carrying vehicle,” you are private individuals, musicians on tour, you have “Professional Equipment.” You have an ATA Carnet but NO GMR. The staff may persist but tell them straight, you are NOT frieight therefore you do NOT have a GMR. Hopefully that will be enough but you will have to be firm, remember: don’t get angry.

Once the staff at the Customs office window have your Carnet they will ask you for a mobile phone number. They keep all your paperwork and give you a slip/receipt and you go and wait for a text. Be sure to wait where there is plenty of phone signal or somewhere within visual distance of the Customs office Window. This will be the first Carnet stamp of four.

The first time I had to visit an Inland Border facility I got a text after nearly 3 hours saying everything was fine and to collect the paperwork. Typically the wait might be 20 minutes, but be prepared for a longer wait on occasion. If I had been picked for inspection that would have added extra time to inspect the goods against the general list.

Once you have the Carnet back, return to your vehicle and head to the Exit. You don’t have to pay for the parking. Watch the site speed limit.

EU Inbound (import)

On arrival at Dublin Port, you may be asked if you have anything to declare. Tell the Border Force that you are heading to T11 with a Carnet for “Professional Equipment.” Follow signs to Customs at T11 which is just past the Circle K garage, see photo below. The Circle K Garage has reasonable toilets and food and drink on offer in case anyone needs anything on the way.

Dublin Port - Call To Customs EU Inbound (import)

Further information is available on:

https://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/businesses/brexit/index.aspx

https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/b2c18-getting-ireland-brexit-ready/

Urgent queries relating to goods entering or leaving Ireland should be directed to:

Revenue’s Customs 24 hour Helpline: +353 1 738 3685

T11 – Terminal 11 Border Crossing Station EU Inbound (import) what3words ///this.gained.proven

When you get to T11, follow the instructions given on where to park. Wear your High Vis and walk to the customs office. Say you have a Carnet that needs stamping as you are importing from UK to EU. Look for Voucher 1 in the Carnet. The sheet will be white and marked IMPORTATION. This will be second Carnet stamp of four.

EU Inbound (import) - Importation

In this example you will notice it says Voucher 3. Thats because the band’s Voucher 1 was used for a trip to Europe earlier in the year. Voucher 2 was used to go to Europe again in September. Voucher 3 pictured above was used for the trip UK/EU to Ireland.

Take ID & your Carnet with completed white importation voucher and copy of general list, sign it in front of them and hand it over. I stood at the window while the staff completed the paperwork. On completion the Staff said “let’s do a quick inspection.” We walked to the Vehicle and indeed, the inspection was quick. He asked me about the Vehicle, was it mine or a hire vehicle? He asked where had we come from and where were we going? He asked me what he would expect to find in the back of the van. I just said “Flight Cases as listed on the Carnet.” I opened the back doors of the van and he looked inside. “That all looks fine to me.” He said. “Anyone in the Vehicle?” I told him the names of the travelling group and he just peered through the window. “Ok That’s fine.” We walked back to the office, he stamped the Carnet and wished us safe travels.

I walked back to the van as quickly as possible without making it look like I was walking as quickly as possible. I climbed in and drove out of the Customs area as quickly as possible too, taking care to observe the site speed limit and making it look like I wasn’t in a hurry to leave. The job was done and we made our way to the first Irish show in Cork.

One thing you need to know about Ireland, you only need to get the Carnet stamped at your port of entry and port of exit. There is no need to deal with customs if you travel north or south. The Tour took us from Dublin Port to Cork, back to Dublin, to Belfast, to Limerick and then back to Dublin Port again. In our situation we only needed to get the Carnet stamped at Dublin Port on arrival and Dublin Port again on our departure.

If you haven’t been to Dublin before, be aware of the Toll Roads. Some roads have Toll Booths where you can pay cash or card, others are online like M50. If you are travelling in a hire Vehicle be sure to register the vehicle for auto pay just in case you forget to pay the online tolls. Try https://www.eflow.ie/

EU Outbound (re-export)

You need to go somewhere different at Dublin Port on the way back to the UK to get the carnet stamped. Follow the signs again to Dublin Port T11 but you want to go, this time, to Yard 3 – Customs Export which is almost opposite on the other side of the road to the T11 entrance. What3Words address: ///token.abode.sticks

EU Outbound (re-export) - reexportation

Complete your white re-exportation voucher (Still Voucher 1) and sign it in front of them as mentioned before. This time the process took 5 minutes. Keep quiet and let them process it as you stand at the window. They are no more interested in your Carnet than you are. Let them do the work while you wait. Say nothing. Only answer direct questions if you have to.

The staff told me they are open 24 hours, 7 days a week. It must be a Dublin Port thing as the staff asked to do an inspection, again. It was much the same as the last one, they walked to the vehicle, asked me to open the back doors. They looked in and then said “fine” as soon as they saw all the flight cases stacked up. We returned to the office once they had asked who else was travelling in the vehicle. They peered through the window to check as before. Once the Carnet was stamped it was returned to me and they instructed me to proceed to the exit. Two staff in high vis were stood at the exit and they waved goodbye as we passed. In all the whole thing took less than 15 minutes. No issues, the staff were professional and courteous. This will be the third Carnet stamp of four.

UK Inbound (re-import)

Return to Holyhead Inland Border Facility as you did before. Same procedure. Park up in the van parking, hand your carnet in at the office window. You will need to get your yellow re-importation marked voucher 1 stamped. This will be the fourth Carnet stamp of four. See also below how the counterfoil gets stamped by UK Customs on the way out then stamped on the way back? Both say counterfoil 1. You don’t need to fill this in but the picture shows you what the UK staff will complete while they have your carnet.

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

If that’s the end of your trip you have to return the Carnet to Rock-it Cargo or whoever supplied the Carnet.

It seems to me that no one is inspecting vehicles UK outbound or UK inbound unless they have good reason to do so. The EU Staff at Dublin Port may check your vehicle but only briefly unless you give them reason to do otherwise. Always tell the others in the travelling group to keep quiet when you are being questioned by Customs or Border Force Staff. Answer the questions in full as simply and clearly as possible.

You may also find this post useful:

Tour Management: Crossing the UK/EU Border Using a Carnet

Useful Addresses:

Rock-it Cargo

Holyhead Interim Inland Border Facility Service, Parc Cybi, Holyhead LL65 2YQ

Inland Border Facilities

https://www.irishferries.com

https://www.stenaline.co.uk

https://holyheadport.co.uk

https://www.dublinport.ie

https://www.eflow.ie

https://www.revenue.ie/en/customs/businesses/brexit/index.aspx

https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/b2c18-getting-ireland-brexit-ready/

Urgent queries relating to goods entering or leaving Ireland should be directed to:

Revenue’s Customs 24 hour Helpline: +353 1 738 3685

Watch and Learn about all things Music and Brexit here: UK Europe Arts Work

Merchandise:

I can recommend watching the relevant Videos by Ian Smith here: https://www.youtube.com/c/UkEuropeartsworkINFO

Merchandise UK Border regulations and easy explainer what you need to do inwards to UK and outwards.

A very quick explainer on getting your merch out of the UK to the EU Schengen area (and beyond) and what you need to do when bringing it in, from simple declaration by conduct (walking through the green channel without saying anything) making a simple online declaration or making a full customs declaration. Please note all the advice here is based on HMRC (UK) current advice and links to said advice is here below. Also please note that the limit of £1500 is different to the limit for ENTRY to the EU we’ve been advised for the EU Schengen area which is €1K euros as a maximum, HMRC (Her majesty’s revenue and customs) PLEASE NOTE VAT … Declarations even if under the allowances for simple declaration at customs (in the red channel if making declaration on the day or online before entry) STILL MEANS YOU HAVE TO PAY VAT IF NECESSARY ! If Under £1500 usually no import duty if goods made in EU; this is for entry to the UK .. 

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/taking-commercial-goods-out-of-great-britain-in-your-baggage

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/bringing-commercial-goods-into-great-britainin-your-baggage

Tour Management:

Iron Man Records Tour Management Services

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