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.
September 1, 2024
en francais While the US approaches another important election in a few months, in Canada we have about 18 months left under the current government. There is a push from the artistic communities in Canada to lobby for a Live Performance Tax Credit. With comparisons to Film Tax credits, a Live Performance Tax credit would […]
Read MoreAugust 1, 2024
en francais : Influence et legs : vivre selon notre mission et nos valeurs Most of us, in one way or another, have been influenced artistically by musicians that came before us. As a trumpet player, the music of Miles Davis is one of many such influences on my sound and creative approach to music. While […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2024
Typically, when a new administration begins, there is a target to achieve some positive momentum within the first 100 days. I want to take some time to share my first 30 days in office. Firstly, I have spent some individual time with all staff in the office. We have a small, but dedicated, group and […]
Read MoreJune 1, 2024
en français : Le legs de la direction: entrer dans la fonction de vice-président pour le Canada Having been sworn into office not quite a week ago, I am currently transitioning from my role as Canadian International Representative (IR) to my new position as vice president from Canada. There is a large void in our AFM […]
Read MoreMay 1, 2024
by Allistair Elliott, AFM International Representative for Canadian Locals In 2019, a new Passenger Bill of Rights provided musicians some protection when travelling with instruments on airlines in Canada. This was a significant step that, for the first time, recognized musicians with instruments on Canadian airlines as a specific group. It created an accountability structure […]
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