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.
October 1, 2020
IM -Musicians and management of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra (ISO) reached a one-year contract agreement, which will be effective through August 29, 2021.
ISO musicians, members of Local 3 (Indianapolis, IN), will be paid a weekly stipend of $500 from January to August 2021—approximately a third of their previous salary. While the originally announced 2020-21 season has been canceled, musicians will be scheduled for six weeks of performances and community engagement activities.
Musicians were first furloughed in April, and relations between orchestra members and management became contentious when musicians’ healthcare was canceled in June. Under the new agreement, healthcare coverage will be restored.
“As we work to re-emerge from this challenging period, the musicians wish to express our sincere appreciation to the ISO’s loyal patrons and donors for their past and ongoing support of our orchestra,” says Brian Smith, Orchestra Committee chair and member of Local 3. “We look forward to once again bringing great music to our beloved city as soon as possible.”