PRS for Music pledges support for grassroots music
PRS for Music has committed to support the LIVE Trust’s £1 contribution – the voluntary payment received by both the Trust and Music Venues Trust (MVT), will not be included in its licence fee calculations, making sure every penny is protected for grassroots music.
At the Night Time Economy Summit 2026, Gavin Larkins, Director of Commercial Development at PRS also revealed it is undertaking a broader, holistic look at modernising PRS’s live tariffs following feedback from across the sector, as part of its continued support of the live music ecosystem.
The levy announcement has been welcomed by Ian Murray MP, Minister for Creative Industries, Media and Arts, who said: “The UK’s world-famous music industry relies on the strength of our live music scene. The £ on stadium and arena tickets is a fantastic initiative and we welcome PRS for Music’s commitment to supporting the grassroots. This scheme is all about putting money back into the ecosystem of the sector, so it’s only right that every penny goes into supporting grassroots venues, festivals, artists and promoters.
“However, to truly transform the sector, we need everyone on board. I am calling on the whole industry to adopt this contribution to protect the future of live music. Real cross sector collaboration like this is exactly what the music industry needs - it creates opportunities for emerging talent.”
Kirsty McShannon, Chair, LIVE Trust, said: “We’re extremely grateful to PRS for Music for agreeing to waive PRS fees on the £1 from every ticket that supports LIVE Trust. This is a meaningful step that will ensure more of that £1 reaches grassroots music.
The voluntary contribution depends on collective action across the live music ecosystem. By listening to industry feedback and removing this layer of cost, PRS has taken a significant step towards making the initiative more workable in practice — helping to reduce barriers and reinforcing a shared commitment to the grassroots sector that underpins the entire industry.”
Andrea Czapary Martin, CEO of PRS for Music said: “Grassroots venues are where songs become livelihoods. We’re backing the LIVE Trust funding mechanic to ensure that every penny is reinvested in the ecosystem that benefits everyone, from promoters and venues to emerging artists and songwriters across the UK.
Today’s announcement comes as we commit to a multi-year review of our live music tariffs. Through this review, all parts of this essential value chain, including customers, members and the industry, can support streamlined, fair and future-proof licensing."
