Most of the essential points concerning relationships between private teachers and their pupils, or parents of pupils, are covered in the ISM Code of Ethics, the ISM Private Teachers Section Code of Ethics and the guidance notes on tuition contracts and fees.

This Code of Practice defines areas of responsibility, accountability and professionalism for ISM private teachers.

1 The Teacher’s Responsibilities
1.1 Teachers are expected to provide a varied and balanced course of study appropriate to the age and ability of each pupil, with regard to both technique and repertoire.

1.2 Teachers are expected to have a suitably equipped studio with access to cloakroom facilities and a waiting area.

1.3 The theory of music and aural training are intrinsic elements of an instrumental or singing lesson but there are times when they need more concentrated attention. Teachers should make it clear to pupils (and parents) whether theory and aural training are specifically included in lessons most of the time, whether extra lessons will be necessary, or whether theory lessons will replace instrumental/singing lessons, when needed.

1.4 If extra lessons of any kind are needed, arrangements should be mutually agreed in accordance with the conditions of the ISM agreement for private music tuition.

1.5 Teachers should make it clear whether or not they are able to accompany non-pianist pupils and at whose expense the services of an accompanist would be provided.

1.6 Teachers should make it clear whether or not they prepare pupils for graded examinations and should advise on optional approaches to studying music.

1.7 Teachers should not view their work in isolation. They should be aware if a pupil has overlapping musical interests, eg whether the pupil learns other instruments, whether the pupil is studying for GCSE or A/AS Level Music, whether the pupil belongs to an orchestra, band, choir, music club etc. Teachers are expected to initiate and do all they can to maintain good communications with parents, schools and other private teachers, as well as with pupils, and not to shoulder child-pupils with the sole responsibility for communicating with other adults (see Information Sheet O1/2 ‘Shared Music Teaching’).

1.8 Teachers should be aware of the ISM’s policies and guidelines on child protection and be prepared to communicate information about their own working practices to parents and pupils. (See Information Sheets M2/6 ‘Professional Conduct with School-Aged Pupils’ and M2/7 ‘Child Protection: The Law’.)

2 The Accountability of the Teacher
2.1 Teachers should make it clear that their work is a professional activity for which they are accountable.

2.2 In the case of adult pupils this can be conveyed during the process of giving tuition.

2.3 In the case of children, it is recommended that the teacher should offer parents at least one of the following: - a termly written progress report
- regular contact with parents
(once a term minimum)

2.4 Teachers are expected to provide performing opportunities for pupils.

2.5 Examination results also demonstrate a teacher’s accountability. Teachers are expected to communicate examination results and to pass on certificates promptly to pupils and parents. On no account should they be withheld pending payment of tuition fees or the settlement of any dispute.

3 The Professional Status of the Teacher
3.1 Teachers are expected to abide by the ISM Code of Ethics and the ISM Private Teachers Section Code of Ethics.

3.2 Pupils (and parents) have the right to know what qualifications the teacher holds, what bodies issue and recognise them, and what professional associations or societies the teacher belongs to. Teachers who are Full members of the ISM are advised to have ‘Member of the Incorporated Society of Musicians’ printed on their stationery, or to use the special stationery available from the Society’s Head Office. Teachers listed in the ISM Register of Professional Private Teachers are entitled to use the ‘ISM Registered Teacher’ stationery, (also available from the Society’s Head Office).

3.3 Teachers are expected to continue their professional development and to keep abreast of developments in music education by attending conferences, courses, seminars, discussion groups and by keeping up their personal reading as well as their performance skills. (The ISM provides its members with good opportunities for professional development and the equivalent of in-service training).

3.4 There are many matters on which teachers may be asked to advise. They should only advise where they are competent to do so or else suggest where an expert opinion can be obtained. Teachers are expected to be able to advise pupils and parents where to go for reliable information on making choices about (a) the purchase of instruments (acoustic and electronic), (b) the appropriate schools for musical education and (c) courses in further and higher education.

ISM Information Sheets related to this advice: (available from Head Office or online)

Generally Available:
01/1 ISM Private Teachers Section Code of Ethics
01/4 Shared Music Teaching
01/5 Guidelines for Music Teachers on the Use of Graded Examinations
02/11 Accompanists - fees
02/13 Private Tuition - fees

Available to ISM Full Members only: (members must logon to access these online)
M2/1 Noise Nuisance/Use of Property
M2/3 ISM Private Teaching Agreements and Fees
M2/6 Professional Conduct with School-Aged Pupils
M2/7 Child Protection: The Law
M3/1 Tax Allowances for Professional Expenses
M3/3 ISM Insurance Services

also for use of Full Members only: (members must logon to order these online)
ISM Agreement for Private Music Tuition
ISM Notice of Increase of Fees
Progress Report Form for End of Term Assessment
ISM Members’ Stationery
ISM Registered Teachers’ Stationery

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Information Sheets Index
Members' Information Sheets Index (login required)
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