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.
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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.
September 1, 2019
IM -After five months of negotiations, musicians and management of the Albany Symphony reached an agreement on a new contract near the end of July.
The four-year contract increases the number of guaranteed services per season, and increases pay rates for services, mileage, and per diems. In addition, pay rates could be further increased pending the organization’s achievement of sales, fundraising, and endowment goals.
The new contract also includes changes in rehearsal and concert conditions that will support artistic quality, and for the first time, includes language addressing education and community-engagement activities. A side letter affirms Albany Symphony’s commitment to the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“The negotiating committee and the Albany Symphony engaged in days of meaningful discussions about the future of the orchestra and how to solve problems both sides were facing,” says Joey Demko of Local 14 (Albany, NY), a French hornist in the orchestra and co-chair of the musicians negotiating committee. “Together, we were able to build a collaborative agreement that ensures that the Capital District continues to have a world-class orchestra.”