Experience and qualification

Respondents’ teaching experience was similar to previous years, with the majority of people having more than 15 years of experience teaching. The trend of recent years for a reduction in the proportion of teachers with less than five years’ experience continues. This might suggest a drop in the number of new teachers entering the sector, though it is also possible that there may be less of a propensity for younger teachers to respond to the survey.

The highest music qualification held by respondents remains a music degree or equivalent. There has been an increase in the proportion with a master’s degree, continuing an upward trend noted last year (18.4% in 2021).

What instruments do respondents teach?

As with previous years, piano or organ was by far the most common instrument taught, with almost half of all respondents predominantly teaching these. Woodwind and brass have enjoyed small increases, perhaps reflecting the full relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions.