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 31, 2024
IM -Local 56 (Grand Rapids, MI) recently completed an incredibly successful membership campaign. In all, their ranks grew nearly 25% during a seven-month drive to bring in new members and reinstate former members.
“We are delighted to see so many new faces joining our local,” says Local 56 President Bennie Keys. “The importance of belonging to the AFM was highlighted to prospective members, and we couldn’t be happier with this outcome. We are thankful to the AFM International Executive Board for extending our membership drive for a few months during a transitional time in our office.”
“The success of our campaign truly was a group effort,” adds Paul Austin, secretary-treasurer of Local 56. “Our executive board and current members really worked together in recruiting, which increased our membership to 285 by July 30.”