Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.
As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.
The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.
Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.
August 22, 2016
My company is hosting an event in Whistler, B.C., and will be employing an American band as entertainment for the event. I understand that they will need a Letter of Invitation, but does the band need to show a contract for performance at customs? Do you see any other issues with them crossing?
August 2, 2016
As a professional musician, you have most likely invested heavily in both your career and your instrument. Your equipment needs to keep you performing at a peak level every time you take the stage or enter the recording studio. As a result, you do everything possible to make you’re your instruments are protected and maintained. But, when it comes to insurance, many musicians simply assume that their standard homeowner’s policy is all that they need to protect their investment.
July 1, 2016
Knowledge of contracts is a must for every touring artist. A contract ensures that both parties communicate their understanding of the details of an engagement. And it binds both parties to honor its provisions.
June 22, 2016
Here are some things you might want to consider when that club, theater, private party, or corporate event says: “You charge how much?” or “Can you do it for less?”
June 20, 2016
It’s always a good idea to carry your paperwork with you, especially when it comes to border crossings.
April 25, 2016
So, how does one avoid border woes? Simply put: do your homework well in advance.
March 21, 2016
Q: I am coming to the United States for a tour and I am making plans now to get my visa for the tour. Is there anything I need to know about getting a visa? The first thing a foreign artist, or nonresident alien (NRA), needs to know is that the visa required for any […]
March 18, 2016
Years ago, if an indie musician wanted to try to book a club or concert venue, they probably started by calling whoever the decision maker was—the club owner, theater manager, etc.—and tried to get them to hear them play. Today it’s a little different. It’s more than a phone call or a press kit with […]
February 1, 2016
The Complete Story on Canadian Work Permits — For many years getting a work permit to bring your band to Canada for a bar, pub, or restaurant gig was a reality.
November 6, 2015
RVs and Elephants: Life Behind the Scenes for Ringling Gold Unit Musicians — Touring year-round withRingling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circuses.