Music Teachers’ Association
Membership Information
How do I apply?
You can obtain an application form from our website, www.musicnsw.com.au (‘For Teachers’, ‘How to Join’, then ‘Membership Form’) or alternatively contact the office on 9570 1436 and an application form will be mailed to you.
You will need to attach copies of relevant qualifications (see below if you have no formal qualifications).
Frequently asked questions:
What is the difference between Membership and Accreditation?
Accreditation is the process of formal recognition of attainment of an acceptable level of music teaching skills. An accredited private music teacher is considered to be able to teach effectively and may also hold an appropriate music teaching degree or diploma. This process was, prior to 1996, undertaken by the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Benefits to becoming a Member of the Association are many and varied, as noted above. The Association offers dedicated support to private music teachers and the music teaching profession. Membership is therefore supporting the Association that supports you.
What sort of qualifications do I need to become a Full Member?
Full Membership requires a degree or diploma in music teaching from a recognised tertiary institution. Consideration will also be given to teachers who can provide evidence of successful professional teaching including references, lists of students’ achievements (eg. AMEB results), etc.
If I am not eligible for Full Membership, can I apply for another type of Membership?
Contemporary Membership is for those who have evidence of all or some of the following:
- Acceptance as a teacher of contemporary/jazz/popular music at a tertiary institution (eg. TAFE, Conservatoria, University etc). This could include teaching of composition via computer/electronic means and audio engineering.
- Qualifications such as ADJS, Certificate 4, appropriate Music Theatre qualifications or a graduate of appropriate courses from the Film & Television School etc.
- A proven record of successful teaching in the field via references, list of students’ achievements, etc. or the submission of a CV.
Associate Membership is for those without any formal music teaching degrees or diplomas.
Student Membership is available to full time music students enrolled in a recognised undergraduate degree or diploma course. Student membership may only be held for 4 years and evidence of student status must be included with the membership application form.
Can I join if I have no qualifications but have teaching experience?
Yes, you may still apply for Full Membership, depending on your level of experience. Otherwise, Contemporary or Associate Membership would be the relevant level.
Do I need to know a Member of the Association to join?
No, this is not absolutely necessary.
What does it cost to apply?
There is no application fee.
After the application is completed, what is the process of approval?
The application is submitted to our Council who meet each month (except December and January). They will determine the level of membership and you will be advised in writing. Newly approved members will then be asked to forward the annual membership fee (or for part of the year thereof). Once received, membership will be granted and you will be forwarded a Membership Certificate and Membership card, a copy of the MTA’s Constitution and our Code of Ethics.
What does annual Membership cost?
| Type of membership | Metropolitan | Country |
| Full | $104.50 | $88.00 |
| Associate | $93.50 | $79.00 |
| Contemporary | $104.50 | $88.00 |
| Student Membership | $49.50 | $49.50 |
| Mailing List Subscription | $50.00 | $50.00 |
| Full International Membership | $88.00 | |
| Associate International Membership | $79.00 |
The above prices are inclusive of GST
Is there any course available to members who have no formal teaching qualifications but are interested in completing a course which is recognised by the MTA?
The Wollongong Conservatorium of Music offers an Advanced Diploma in Music which is specially designed for private music teachers to gain a qualification in pedagogy. The Advanced Diploma in Music is temporarily suspended due to change of administration at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music.
What can we offer you as a member?
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Referral service |
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The Studio magazine |
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Professional Development |
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Junior Music Festivals |
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Scholarships |
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Discounts |
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Benevolent Fund |
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Comprehensive library |
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Social events |