My name is James Dickenson and for more than twenty five years I was a professional violinist. During this time I worked with most UK orchestras, led quartets, and recorded TV and film music. I was also heavily involved in working for the union and representing musicians. Covid changed the direction of my career and in 2023 I graduated with an honours law degree from the Open University.

The Musician’s Advocate is an independent, artist-led organisation providing advocacy and representation for artists working within complex institutional, political, and public environments.

The organisation supports artists at moments of professional risk, power imbalance, or ethical uncertainty—particularly where existing structures such as management, legal advice, or institutional processes are insufficient or conflicted. TMA works artist-first and independently of employers, funders, and institutions.

A small number of artists are represented at any one time. Representation is selective and offered by mutual agreement, with an emphasis on discretion, integrity, and artist autonomy. Engagement may take the form of ongoing representation or time-limited advisory support.

Alongside artist representation, TMA works with arts organisations and educational institutions through training, facilitation, and advisory work.