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Save Our Scene to protest lack of help for musicians during the pandemic in London and Bristol this week

By | Published on Monday 30 November 2020

Save Our Scene UK

Two bike ride protests will take place in London and Bristol later this week, raising awareness of those musicians who have as yet received no financial support from the UK government during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Save Our Scene UK protests follow another that took place in October this year.

Many freelancers – including musicians – have fallen through the gaps of government support, leaving many with little or no income since March. Protesters have campaigned throughout the crisis for these gaps to be closed. So far without success. Meanwhile the government’s specific schemes for the cultural sector have focused more on companies and institutions rather than individual creators.

As well as attempting to put pressure on politicians to act – rather than simply telling people to retrain – Save Our Scene UK is also raising money for the Help Musicians COVID support fund.

“As instructed by the government, the music industry is getting on their bike”, says SOS co-founder George Fleming. “Our aim is to bring music lovers and professionals together and show the government how important it is to protect the arts. We will be protesting until we see change, we cannot stop and must stand strong for what we believe in”.

“The first protest in London was so successful back in October and we’re confident that it’s only going to get bigger”, he continues. “I’m excited to take the campaign to Bristol. The city is one of the most musically eclectic in the country. If you love music and have not been to Bristol before, now is your chance”.

The campaign’s other founder, Josh Parkinson, adds: “The industry has never needed our support more than now. The majority of musicians rely on events to make a living and right now we’re not making a living. I’m urging everyone to get behind this campaign, we need your support”.

“If you can’t make this rally, come to the next one”, he says. “If you can’t make that, check out how you can donate through our Instagram page. If you can’t afford to donate anything, spread the love and tell your friends. We’re going make some serious noise and we’re NOT retraining!”

The London protest will take place on Wednesday, riding from Speakers Corner in Hyde Park to Parliament Square. The Bristol protest will take place the following day, riding from Clifton Downs to St Andrew’s Park. Each protest will be led by a vehicle kitted out with DJ equipment. DJing in London will be Parkinson and Jess Bays, while Bristol will have Got Some and Pablo Bravas providing the soundtrack.

Find out more here.



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