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 » Orchestra News » Grand Rapids Symphony Negotiates for Fair Contract


Grand Rapids Symphony Negotiates for Fair Contract

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Grand Rapids Symphony Negotiates for Fair ContractMusicians of the Grand Rapids Symphony have been in negotiations with management since April for a new CBA. The previous contract, covering 50 full-time and 30 part-time musicians, expired August 31.

Under that agreement, musicians received small raises of 2% to 3% in each of the past three seasons. Those were small steps to work toward rebuilding wages that were cut drastically in 2009. Negotiations have not just focused on salaries and work rules, but also strategies to grow the orchestra.

The first official concert of the 2015-2016 season took place in mid-September, but the musicians organized and presented a free concert at Grand Rapids Public Museum just after Labor Day to raise public awareness. A standing-room-only audience of approximately 255 filled the museum.







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