The majority of musicians will do some teaching at some point, and all teaching has safeguarding implications. This webinar, developed with our partners in the Musicians’ Union, covers the essential understanding of issues around safeguarding required by anyone working with children and vulnerable adults, whether in person or online.

The Royal College of Organists and its partners have produced a number of specimen contract and agreement documents for organists employed in places of worship, for performance(s), and in teaching roles.

Bach famously had moments of contention with his employers and colleagues over fees, commissions, teaching schedules, leave of absence. In these respects at least, it seems that nothing much changes.

Working as a professional organist requires additional skills beyond musicianship, so the RCO has organised a one-day Organists in Business conference in June to provide business skills and career advice to organists at all levels.

In March 2014, our partners at the Incorporated Society for Musicians presented a webinar for ISM members entitled Key Issues in Safeguarding and Child Protection. The webinar, presented by ISM Head of Legal In March 2014 David Abrahams, addressed some common issues that musicians who work with under 18s should be aware of.

Competition law prevents trade associations and organisations from recommending rates for musicians’ freelance work.

However, there are a number of resources available to help those considering fees for employed organists and directors of music, and these may include some useful background information on some of the issues to consider.

There are a number of published resources available to guide organists and employers with reference to fees for regular and special services in places of worship.