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.

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Home » Guest Column » Music Performance Trust Fund » New Chapter: Leadership Transitions and a Promising 2026 for the MPTF


New Chapter: Leadership Transitions and a Promising 2026 for the MPTF

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Happy New Year! We wish you and your loved ones health and prosperity throughout 2026. For those I have not yet met, I am Greg Linn, the new trustee for the Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF), and this is my first column for the International Musician.

As we begin this new year, the MPTF is entering an exciting period of transition. We celebrate the retirements of several dedicated team members, while welcoming fresh leadership to guide us forward.

After years of exceptional service, Dan Beck retired from his role as MPTF leader and now serves as trustee emeritus. Vidrey Blackburn, who directed our grant group with distinction for an extraordinary 40 years, has also retired. Additionally, Alburn Elvin, our longtime finance leader, has concluded his tenure with the organization.

These transitions create wonderful opportunities for growth. We are delighted to announce that Samantha Ramos has been promoted to vice president of grants—a well-deserved recognition of her expertise and dedication. We’re also pleased to welcome Jim Olsen as our new finance director.

Please join us in thanking Dan, Vidrey, and Al for their remarkable contributions; in congratulating Samantha; and in welcoming Jim to their new roles.

Our 2025 revenue from the recording industry remains steady, supported by strong music streaming growth. US streaming revenue will approach $14 billion this year, with forecasts reaching $17 billion in five years. This reflects well on the trust fund and is a credit to the AFM and its musicians, whose 2016 labor agreement ensures continued support for our work.

As we look toward 2026 and beyond, we’re excited to deepen our collaborations with the AFM and our longstanding partners, including French Quarter Fest in New Orleans, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Save the Music, Make Music Day, and the American String Teachers Association, among others. We will also continue celebrating Women’s History Month, Black History Month, Jazz Appreciation Month, and Juneteenth.

In closing, I want to thank the musicians and AFM locals for their warm welcome during this transition. Your dedication and commitment are central to the MPTF’s mission. As we enter 2026, I’m encouraged by our shared strength and the promising future ahead. We look forward to continuing our work with you to enrich lives and communities through the power of music.







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