Code of Ethics

Adopted by the Membership October 2, 1983
Revised November 3, 1996, Ratified March 10, 1997

We the members of the Maryland State Music Teachers Association Inc, having dedicated ourselves to the advancement of musical knowledge and education, recommend the following principles of ethical practice as standards of professional conduct:

I. Responsibilities to Our Public

  1. Members shall maintain the highest standards of moral conduct, professional conduct and personal integrity.
  2. Members shall exhibit the highest standard of expertise by maintaining their professional abilities in their fields of teaching and performing.
  3. Members shall maintain and increase the prestige of the art of teaching and shall promote the teaching of music as a culturally enriching profession.
  4. When asked, members shall assist those seeking guidance in selecting an independent teacher by suggesting the names of two or more teachers in the community. The final choice shall be made by the parent and student.
  5. Members shall refrain from making exaggerated claims or misleading statements concerning their teaching qualifications. Advertising copy shall be dignified, strictly truthful, and representative of the art of music and its responsibility to the community.

II. Responsibilities to Our Students

  1. The relationship between teacher and student shall be established, maintained and terminated in a professional manner.
  2. Members are responsible for encouraging, guiding and developing the musical potential of each student.
  3. Members shall encourage students to participate in community music activities.

III. Responsibilities to Our Colleagues

  1. Members shall maintain a professional attitude and shall act with integrity in regard to colleagues in their profession.
  2. Members shall participate as fully as possible in activities of Music Teachers National Association.
  3. Members shall provide professional assistance to one another when such assistance is requested.
  4. Members shall respect the rights of colleagues when speaking of other teachers’ work and/or students and shall avoid conflict with the instruction of a student’s regular teacher when serving as an interim instructor.
  5. Members will claim credit for the achievement of a student only after the completion of six months studying with the respective teacher.