American Academy of Teachers of Singing

Code of Ethics

Made and adopted by the American Academy of Teachers of Singing for their individual guidance.

Preamble

Throughout its existence the American Academy of Teachers of Singing has stressed the vital importance of the ethical principles that should govern its members. At its inception and with the adoption of its constitution, there was set up a requirement for the establishment of a "code which will improve the ethical principles and practice of the profession."

The original code was adopted in 1924. The present revision, incorporating the principles then enunciated, contains such modifications as the passage of time has made advisable.

Each member of the Academy pledges adherence to the code. Unethical conduct renders a member liable to expulsion.

Code

1. Members of the American Academy of Teachers of Singing will uphold the highest standards of correct professional conduct as instructors, advisers, and colleagues.
2. In all vocal auditions the duty of the teacher is to diagnose the case impartially and impersonally. It is therefore suggested that, at the outset, the student be requested not to disclose the name of any former teacher.
3. It is unethical to proselytize in any way, directly or indirectly, by inducement or innuendo, the pupil of another teacher.
4. It is unethical to advertise scholarships. While the granting of free tuition is admissible, the use of personal advertising for such purpose constitutes unfair practice.
5. It is unethical to accept as a pupil any person who has failed to pay just indebtedness to another teacher.
6. It is unethical to exploit as one's own the results of another teacher's instruction, or to allow one's pupils to do so. In publicity of any kind, a minimum of one year of continuous instruction shall be necessary for the teacher to claim the student as a pupil. Dignity and scrupulous adherence to facts in advertising should at all times be observed.
7. Any specific promise by a teacher that leads the student to false hopes of a career is a breach of ethics and integrity.
8. It is unethical to make a contract with a pupil demanding more than the actual price of lessons or one based on a percentage of the student's potential earnings in excess of such a sum.
9. It is unethical to accept a fee for aid in securing an engagement for a pupil.

Amended in January, 1986.

Copyright © 1999, 2002, 2004 The American Academy of Teachers of Singing, Inc. All rights reserved.