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.
August 1, 2018
In late June, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) musicians, members of Local 8 (Milwaukee, WI), and management reached a four-year contract agreement that will cover the 2018-2019 season through the 2022-2023 season.
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The Grand Rapids Symphony has been awarded a grant of $1.1 million from the Wege Foundation to engage new and diverse audiences with live orchestra music.
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The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Washington Performing Arts have announced the four orchestras selected to participate in the third SHIFT: A Festival of American Orchestras, to take place March 23-29, 2020.
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When the Pokrovsky Opera orchestra musicians were not allowed to bring their instrument cases on board their flight from Latvia to Moscow, Russia, they improvised.
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Our program, officially titled “AFM Local 47 Career Pathways Program,” launched last month with funding from the Verdugo Workforce Investment Board (or as those of us who sit on these boards call them “the WIB”).
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In a blatant attempt to avoid liability for the October 2017 Las Vegas shooting at the Route 91 festival, MGM Resorts International (owner of the Mandalay Bay hotel) has filed federal lawsuits against more than 1,000 victims.
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The Nashville Symphony Orchestra and its musicians, members of Local 257 (Nashville, TN), have announced a new four-year contract that goes into effect August 1.
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In June, Spokane Symphony management and its musicians, members of Local 105 (Spokane, WA), ratified a new three-year contract.
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Having meaningful human contact with a trusted friend can make a huge difference to someone suffering from depression. Reach out to them, making it clear that it is safe for them to tell you how they feel without fearing judgment, pity, or guilt.
Read MoreAugust 1, 2018
At just 23, Ruth Berhe, who goes by Ruth B., still seems stunned by her own sudden success. A talented vocalist and pianist with a longtime passion for music, she was planning to become a lawyer when music took over her life.
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