The United Kingdom’s music sector has announced a new workforce diversity survey, named four patrons for the Music Venue Trust (MVT), and detailed a 16-venue tour of independent venues from audio technology firm Marshall.
Workforce diversity survey#
Umbrella body UK Music has launched the 2026 edition of its workforce diversity survey. It will gather responses from industry professionals, business owners, freelancers and educators to map the demographic composition of the sector. Results are scheduled for publication in 2027.
Music Venue Trust patrons#
The Music Venue Trust, which supports grassroots venues, has named four new official patrons, all of whom were already supporters of the charity:
- Norman Cook, also known as Fatboy Slim
- Jamie Cullum
- Ciaran Lavery
- Radio DJ Chris Hawkins
Chief operating officer Beverley Whitrick said the appointments recognise existing contributions. “Making them official patrons is really about recognising that contribution and saying thank you,” Whitrick said. “Their voices help us reach audiences, communities and decision-makers that MVT could never reach alone.”
Marshall tour#
Marshall is launching a Made of Loud Tour that will visit 16 independent venues across the United Kingdom in October. The run marks the 10th anniversary of the company’s Marshall Records label.
Two acts from that label, Cancer Bats and Knives, will be joined on the tour by Ignite. Marshall said it is also directly funding improvement projects at a number of venues on the circuit.
