ISM fees survey results outline cost-of-living impact on teachers

The Independent Society of Musicians (ISM) has released the results of its annual fees survey. The results can be used as a benchmarking tool for private instrumental teachers, those working in schools and hubs, and those involved in accompanying and examining. 

The data has been collated from 663 respondents including both ISM and non-ISM members; the survey was conducted between December 2022 and March 2023. 

Key findings

The survey found that the median rate for one-to-one private teaching has increased by £1 up to £36 per hour. 46% of respondents have increased their rates this year, with 41% expecting to increase their fees in the coming year. The data shows regional discrepancies when it comes to private teaching fees, with the average hourly rate in Inner London being almost £15 higher than Yorkshire, and more than £18 higher than Northern Ireland. 

For instrumental teachers working part-time in schools, there are differences in the hourly one-to-one rates depending on the type of school or establishment they are working for. The median hourly fee for those employed in an independent school is £35.99 compared to £31 in state-funded schools and £28 in music services, hubs or music schools. Comparatively, for the self-employed, the median is £42 per hour for those teaching in independent schools, £34 in state-funded schools and £30 in music services, hubs or music schools.

In the report, the ISM has shared its concerns for the rights of instrumental music teachers, and those who are on zero-hour contracts which have a lack of protection for those in a regular pattern of work due to no minimum number of hours outlined. 

Find out more in the latest column from the ISM. 

A note from the CEO

Commenting, ISM Chief Executive Deborah Annetts, said, ‘We know that the results of our annual fees survey make for a very useful benchmarking tool for private instrumental teachers, those working in schools and hubs and those involved in accompanying and examining.

‘Amongst other things, this year’s results show that the cost-of-living crisis is likely to increase the fees charged by teachers. Music teachers do a wonderful job in bringing the joy of music to their students and we hope that the ISM’s fees survey results are a useful resource for them. The ISM thanks every teacher who took the time to participate in the fees survey this year.’