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.
January 1, 2021
IM -Union Plus recently awarded $300,000 in scholarships to 215 students representing 43 unions, including two winners representing the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). This year’s group of scholarship recipients includes university, college, and trade or technical school students from 38 states. The AFM winners are:
• Hannah Kavanaugh of Independence, Missouri. Kavanaugh, whose father, Keith Kavanaugh, and mother, Elicia Kavanaugh, are members of Local 34-627 (Kansas City, MO), has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
• Jeremy Stepansky of Montclair, New Jersey. Stepansky, whose father, Alan Stepansky, is a member of Local 802 (New York City), has been awarded a $1,500 scholarship.
“Union Plus is proud to be able to increase our scholarship award amount this year and help more union families than ever before,” said Union Plus President Mitch Stevens. “At a time when many families have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are especially glad to support this year’s group of 215 hardworking students as they further their educations and pave the path for future success.”