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.
April 10, 2014
IM -In a letter to the National Labor Relations Board, the American Guild of Musical Artists, representing singers and chorus members of the San Diego Opera, requested an injunction to freeze the opera’s assets. According to The San Diego Union-Tribune, the letter cited a portion of labor law that allows the agency to go to federal court and ask a judge for an injunction to protect the contractual rights of workers. The union is demanding payment on existing contracts. If the opera sells off its assets no money would be left for the 25 singers who have contracts totaling close to $1 million to perform in future years. Meanwhile, a group trying to keep the San Diego Opera alive lobbied City Council to join the fight. About 50 singers performed “The Masked Ball.”