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.
June 1, 2019
These five movements form a backdrop for an exploration of life in the Yukon and are built around five texts by British-Canadian poet Robert Service.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
Playing with Ease is a book about ergonomic technique for the guitar, as well as other instruments.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
In his two latest books, bass clarinetist Michael Drapkin of Local 802 (New York City) offers advice and assistance on improving your technique as well as your physical instrument.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
Local 374 (Concord, NH) celebrated its 115th year of service at its monthly meeting on May 2, during which the executive board also showcased the original “Certificate of Affiliation” that was drawn up on April 22, 1904.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
In an effort to help Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) musicians and management reach a contract agreement, a bill providing an additional $3.2 million in state funding to the orchestra over the next two years is expected to become law by the end of May.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
On April 28, the fifth “class” of AFM local officers, staff, and musician leaders—19 in all—made their way to the Tommy Douglas Center in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
This revised and newly engraved edition of Jean Baptiste Arban’s Complete Conservatory Method for CC Tuba is based on the comprehensive system of study that Arban first developed more than a century ago.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
Here is a list of the 2019 symphonic player conference schedule including the ROPA Conference, TMA Conference, OCSM/OMOSC Conference and ICSOM Conference.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
This book is not intended to be an instruction manual for conductors, nor is it a history of conducting. It is for all who wonder what conductors actually do.
Read MoreJune 1, 2019
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s strike came to an end in late April, as musicians ratified a new five-year contract. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel stepped in to assist with negotiations, bringing both sides of the negotiating table to his office for a meeting. The strike was resolved two days later.
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