SMPV Charter
While revising the SMPV homepage, I came across this carefully formulated charter, and at the presidential conference we realized that those present were not even aware that this charter existed.
As we have since learned from Wolfgang Pailer, it was apparently a matter close to Roland Vuataz's heart that the SMPV should have such a charter, and so towards the end of his time as SMPV President, he ensured that it was formulated and printed. It was effectively his farewell gift to the SMPV.
For our charter to be effective, we must of course be familiar with it. And we SMPV members must also be able to stand behind our charter. That is why the section presidents are inviting you, dear members, to let us know by the end of the year what you would like to see changed or added.
The charter was written in French and translated into German. I have taken the liberty of reprinting the German text slightly edited:
SMPV Members' Charter
This charter links the general objectives of music teaching with a common professional ethic.
Human education through music:
Music education stimulates the imagination, it promotes creativity, intuition and sensitivity, which is why musical education is always also human education.
Mutual respect
Making music means being able to listen to others and express yourself. Holistic music lessons therefore contribute to building a society based on respect, mutual esteem and tolerance.
Right to optimal music education
SMPV members are committed to providing the best possible music education by supporting their students and motivating them to achieve the best possible musical level while maintaining the joy of making music.
The joy of learning
Progress brings joy and satisfaction. It is the result of personal commitment, effort and concentration. Promoting the joy of learning is an important concern for music lessons.
Music practice as a benefit
When teachers make music themselves and strive to constantly improve their skills, this also has a positive effect on the development of their pupils.
Further training through exchange of experience
SMPV members keep each other informed about developments and progress in music education. They continue their education, exchange experiences and are open to innovations.
Public relations
Convincing the public of the need for professional music education is one of the most important concerns of the SMPV and its members.
Mutual appreciation
SMPV members are characterized by openness, collegiality and mutual recognition, regardless of their diverse artistic and pedagogical activities.
The text still seems relevant to me because it was originally formulated so openly. Nevertheless, I would like to see a section on dealing with digital media and AI added. And the topic of "social media" should also be included. There needs to be an agreement on how teachers, students and SMPV members communicate with each other there, what can be posted and how we protect the personal rights of others.
It also seems important to me that we work together politically and in trade unions to promote the concerns of musicians in general and music teachers in particular, and that we work closely with partner associations to achieve this, because we can only achieve our goals together.
Finally, in the section "Joy of learning", I am missing something about the feedback culture, which has a major influence on whether or not the joy of making music and practicing is maintained.
And you, dear colleagues, what would you like to change or add to the text so that you can ultimately fully support the SMPV Charter?
Please send topic requests, specific change requests and text suggestions by December 31, 2023 to marianne.waelchli@smpv.ch.
