Music contributes £6 billion of GVA to the UK economy, which represents 0.95% of total GDP. Productivity levels – calculated as GVA per head are relatively high at £40,800.

There are several successful small businesses in the industry.  Small businesses in the sector have considerable entrepreneurial drive led by people who will invest their personal finances.

Keeping hold of Intellectual Property in small businesses is a real challenge.  Addressing key issues relating to the performance of businesses in the sector is also imperative. 

Key statistics:

• 95,010 people work in the music Industry.
• 47% are self employed and 20% are freelancers.
• Music contributes £6b of GVA to the UK economy.
• There is a significant majority of male workers in the sector (69%).
• 96% of the music workforce is white.
• There are 17,680 businesses in the music sector in the UK.
• Only 4% employ 20 people or more.

Sources: Skills Needs Assessment 2007 and Gap Analysis and Market Testing 2007

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