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.
July 1, 2026
The AFM honored George Fiddler, director of the Theatre, Touring, Booking Division and Immigration Services, with the AFM Lifetime Achievement Award. This distinction celebrates Fiddler’s decades of steadfast leadership, unwavering professional integrity, and tireless advocacy on behalf of professional musicians worldwide.
The son of legendary violinist Manny Fiddler, George followed his father’s advice and joined Local 802 (New York City) in 1972. Over the years, he forged a remarkable performance career as an outstanding jazz trumpeter, eventually becoming a top-call musician on the New York club date and resort circuits.
Fiddler transitioned into labor advocacy in the early 2000s, joining the Federation as a contract administrator before stepping into the director role in 2017. His vast experience as a working freelance musician provided him with a profound understanding of the unique challenges facing traveling artists.
Known for his meticulous eye for detail, Fiddler has championed better treatment for theater musicians, administered major collective bargaining agreements—such as the Pamphlet B Theatrical Touring Agreement—and overseen critical immigration advisory letters for international artists. Notably, during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Fiddler’s proactive leadership secured remote protocols that kept critical immigration petitions processing and vital benefits flowing.
Furthermore, he has served as a patient mentor, successfully launching the Federation careers of several current labor leaders. The AFM extends its deepest gratitude to Fiddler for his exceptional devotion, wisdom, and impactful service to our musical community.