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, 2025
IM -Working musicians’ craft is about art and passion, but it’s also a livelihood. Protecting that livelihood requires smart business decisions. From cherished instruments to liability exposure, insurance is a vital safeguard. Through Federation partnerships over the years with group insurance entities, members have accessed a variety of insurance solutions tailored specifically to musicians. To continue meeting these needs, the Federation has teamed up with HUB International, the world’s largest privately-owned insurance brokerage and risk advisory firm. Working diligently with HUB, several new products for US-based AFM members are on the way.
Accidents happen, and general liability insurance is crucial for bands, bandleaders, and other musical units to protect themselves from civil liability for injuries or property damage caused to others. Many venues and managements require proof of liability coverage before booking, making this insurance indispensable. Via Insureon, HUB’s commercial products arm, AFM members can now access standalone annual general liability policies starting at $500, tailored to their performance risks.
For organized groups or other performing musical business entities that need comprehensive protection, Insureon now offers a Businessowner’s Policy (BOP), combining “all risks” property coverage (which can include far more than just musical equipment) with general liability insurance. This bundled approach offers significant savings, with premiums starting at $500 annually.
VIU by HUB connects members with personal insurance solutions such as auto, homeowner’s/renter’s, personal umbrella, and pet insurance. Members can learn more about these options via the user-friendly one-stop member insurance portal at afm.org, providing a seamless online customer experience augmented by live agent support.
Instruments are career essentials. Whether it’s a vintage violin or a modern digital setup, no equipment means no gigs. The AFM is currently working with Insureon to finalize an additional equipment insurance product that will offer broad, affordable protection against direct physical loss or damage—whether at a fixed location or in transit. With competitive premiums, this “all perils” coverage is customizable based on the instrument’s value, location, and claim history.
This upcoming equipment-only policy will provide an even more cost-effective way to ensure your gear is covered, offering flexibility for members who may not need the broader insurance packages. These and the other available options will make it even easier for AFM members to protect their gear and livelihood without breaking the bank. Be sure to check back next month for more details and to take advantage of these affordable new offerings!