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.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AFM

IM



Saudi Arabia Opens to Arts

As part of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 economic project, the country is opening up to the arts. Paris Opera has agreed to help set up a national orchestra and opera in Saudi Arabia.

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International Executive Board Approves New Live Concert Streaming Agreement

The AFM International Executive Board has approved a new Live Concert Streaming Agreement that specifically covers the taping of concerts that will be made available on the Internet as individual selections.

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Why We Should Advocate for Larger Pit Orchestras

I received many insightful comments from musicians across our Federation after my November 2017 column addressing the downsizing of touring musical orchestras. Most of the comments suggested ways to educate the public about this issue in order to have them demand larger orchestras to enhance their theatre experience.

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Boston Landmarks Orchestra Votes to Unionize

In a National Labor Relations Board election, Boston Landmarks Orchestra musicians voted 41 to 5 for Local 9-535 to represent them as they organize and negotiate their first collective bargaining agreement.

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AFM & SAG-AFTRA Fund Names New CEO

The AFM & SAG-AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund, the AFM, and SAG-AFTRA have named veteran music industry executive Stefanie Taub as chief executive officer of the Fund.

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Imaginary Folksongs for Soprano/Alto Saxophone and Piano

Originally written for saxophonist Nathan Nabb of Locals 29-717 (Granite City, IL) and 2-197 (St. Louis, MO), this engaging set of six short pieces runs the gamut from virtuosic to melancholy to humorous.

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Puerto Rican AFT Union President Denounces School Privatization

Aida Díaz, president of the Teachers Association of Puerto Rico (AFT) denounced the privatization of many of the island’s public schools, calling for those affected by the closures to “create a human shield to protect our education” on April 25 at the Capitol.

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Aldo Mazza: Educator Builds Bridges to Cuban Rhythms and Culture

Percussionist Aldo Mazza of Local 406 (Montreal, PQ) is an Italian-born Canadian educator specializing in Cuban rhythms and music. With his wife, violinist Jolán Kovács, he founded KoSA Academy in Montreal.

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New Charges in Dispute with Mayo Clinic

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) has filed new charges in its dispute with Mayo Clinic Health System Albert Lea. the National Labor Relations Board has found merit to the charges. Employees were locked out during Christmas after participating in a one-day strike over contract negotiations. Mayo management has been actively interfering with and discouraging […]

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Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Tours Poland

In March the musicians of Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO), members of Local 92 (Buffalo, NY), went on international tour for the first time in 30 years, and only the second time ever.

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