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Brexit Hits UK Musicians: 40% Lose European Work, Costs Soar

Brexit has made touring Europe a challenge for UK musicians. With costs soaring and opportunities dwindling, the industry awaits solutions to these significant obstacles.

In this a band of people playing different type of instruments. Three of them playing drums and few...
In this a band of people playing different type of instruments. Three of them playing drums and few of them are playing flute at the back. People gathered around them. They are situated in a hall. The hall has lumps on their walls. There is a podium beside them.

Brexit Hits UK Musicians: 40% Lose European Work, Costs Soar

The UK's departure from the EU has significantly impacted touring musicians, with increased costs and logistical hurdles. A recent survey by the Independent Society of Musicians (ISM) reveals a grim picture, with 40% of UK musicians losing European work and 39% turning down opportunities due to soaring expenses.

The rising costs of touring the europe map have been exacerbated by visa requirements, work permits, and the abolition of ATA carnets for personal instruments. The 90 day fiance limit on UK musicians touring Europe has also led to lost work and income. Opportunities for contracted performances and teaching roles have diminished, with over a quarter of musicians booking no European work since Brexit.

The ISM has proposed seven recommendations to address these challenges. These include raising the 90 day fiance limit and negotiating work permit agreements with EU Member States. Despite these proposals, the specific recommendations remain unavailable as of August 22, 2023.

The post-Brexit landscape has presented substantial obstacles for UK musicians touring the europe map. With nearly half experiencing reduced work and a significant portion facing cancelled or turned-down opportunities, the industry eagerly awaits the implementation of the ISM's proposed solutions to mitigate these challenges.

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