I am only just starting out in terms of instrumental teaching from home, I don't have any pupils yet but I am making endeavours to get some! I was advised to join a union but I'm not sure of a few things so thought I would swing some questions by you all first!!! Sorry if you have heard this all before...

1. If I don't have any pupils yet, is there any point in me joining a Union or am I better off waiting?

2. In terms of the ISM, would the Associate Membership be best for me as I'm not teaching yet?

3. In terms of the Musicians Union, although I busk occasionally and play a lot in schools, I am not a professional performer of any kind, so I have not earned any money through music. They ask if I have earned more or less than £15,000 through music, I have earned less, but is this really relevant to me if I haven't started teaching yet?


I'm just confused I suppose.... should I join a Union and if so, which one?

Thanks everyone!

I don't know all the answers but the question from the MU about earnings is because there are 2 different levels of membership fees depending on your earnings from music. There did used to be a 3rd level which suited me as I'm only doing a small amount of teaching.
One of the main benefits for me is the publice liability insurance. Union membership was the cheapest way to get this.

For the ISM you need recommendation from 2 existing members which pretty well makes the choice for a lot of people.

That thread was really useful and I joined the MU because of it.