Petition for fair fees: Barnim's music schools in the crisis!

Petition for fair fees: Barnim's music schools in the crisis!

Barnim, Deutschland - The situation of the fee teachers at the Barnim music school is anything but rosy. A recently launched Petition , which is clear to the district administrator and the district council. Since the open letter from Janco Bystron on January 1, 2023, there were no significant improvements. On the contrary: The announced increase in the fee for 2024 was withdrawn in July 2024, which plunges many freelance teachers into great fear of existence.

Again and again it is warned that highly qualified educators leave the Barnim to find better conditions in Berlin or Oberhavel. An article in the Märkische Oderzeitung in March 2025 already spoke of a emigration trend that endangers the quality of teaching and ultimately also affects children, young people and their families. The demands of the petition are clear: an immediate adjustment of the fee and regulated employment relationships for the teachers.

court ruling ensures uncertainty

The situation is also accomplished by a judgment of the Federal Social Court It says that many lecturers at music schools can no longer work as honorary workers, but as permanent employees. Over 90% of teachers at the Hugo Distler music school in Petershagen/Eggersdorf are affected by this regulation. Headmaster Alexander Braun is faced with possible additional costs of around 200,000 euros and warns: Without the necessary financial resources, the school could have to close.

The survey among the fee forces also shows that many do not want to switch to permanent employment because they appreciate freedom and creativity. This uncertainty about the future is increasingly burdening the teachers, and there is a fear that higher school fees and a reduced offer could be the consequences of the implementation of the judgment.

agreement urgently needed

A working group from different associations now calls for a longer transition period by the end of 2026 to convert into employment subject to social security contributions. The Pro Musikverband supports this approach and opens up scope for the music schools in order to maintain the good quality of the lesson until then. This transition period could be necessary to catch the consequences of the judgment and ensure a smooth transition.

The goal for the Musikschule Barnim and similar institutions is clear: fair conditions, reasonable payment and respect for the performance of freelance teachers. It remains to be seen whether the petition initiatives and demands can be heard and can lead to a sustainable improvement in the situation.