German Music and Art Schools Stage Protest, Demand Greater Financial Support

One day after thousands of teachers rallied in front of the state parliament, music and art schools across Brandenburg joined forces in a powerful protest outside the Landtag in Potsdam on 22 May. Students, teachers, and parents used orchestral performances, drums, and hand-made signs to draw attention to the urgent need for increased government support for cultural education.

Protesters carried signs reading “We’re at our limit,” “Music is not a luxury,” and “More funds for flutes,” demanding action to address chronic underfunding and to ensure that access to music education does not become a privilege for the wealthy. Participants played music outside the parliament building, calling on lawmakers to recognise the value of accessible, affordable arts education.

School representatives pointed out that growing financial pressures in recent years have led to rising tuition fees for families. In many cases, parents have been forced to withdraw their children from music lessons due to cost. They urged the state government to take on greater responsibility for funding music and arts education in the public interest.

The protests also highlighted the long-term impact of a 2022 court ruling in Herrenberg, which classified a freelance music teacher as falsely self-employed. As a result, music and art schools across Germany are now legally required to employ instructors on social security contracts—dramatically increasing operational costs. Many institutions now say they are struggling to survive under the new financial burden.