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 15, 2018
This month, Nasar Abadey, drummer, bandleader, and educator will receive the DC Jazz Festival Lifetime Achievement Award, alongside Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés.
Read MoreJune 12, 2018
This is a big year for New Orleans, which is celebrating the tricentennial of its founding in 1718. It’s also turning out to be an important year for the city’s AFM local. Local 174-496 (New Orleans, LA) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of its merger in 1968, as well as the grand opening of its new home, coined Tricentennial Hall.
Read MoreJune 6, 2018
Since December 2014, the Canadian Federation of Musicians (CFM) has been lobbying to ensure safe carriage of musical instruments on Canadian airline carriers.
Read MoreJune 6, 2018
Local 145 (Vancouver, BC) member Eli Bennett was just nine years old when his father Daryl Bennett won the first ever Leo Award for Best Musical Score in a Feature Length Drama.
Read MoreJune 6, 2018
representatives of the Canadian Federation of Musicians (CFM) appeared before the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology to outline recommendations for much-needed amendments to the Copyright Act
Read MoreJune 4, 2018
While Randy Kerber may not be a household name, if you’ve watched any movies over the last four decades you’ve likely heard his work.
Read MoreJune 4, 2018
Rex Allen came of age at the height of rock and roll, but he pursued more unconventional music as a teenager in the 1960s—the sound of swing.
Read MoreJune 1, 2018
The RCF EVOX J Series comes in two models—J8 and JMIX8. J8 features a line source satellite module with eight two-inch, full-range drivers paired with a high-powered, 12-inch woofer in a bass reflex enclosure, powered by onboard 1400-watt Class D amplification.
Read MoreJune 1, 2018
The following article is taken from the book Managing Your Band, Artist Management: The Ultimate Responsibility, 6th Edition, by Stephen Marcone and David Philp (Hal Leonard Corporation). The book is a resource for any musician working in the music business. It covers data analysis, planning, modern record company structure, social marketing, touring, and more.
Read MoreJune 1, 2018
Violinist Belinda Whitney of Local 802 (New York City) has forged an exciting and diverse career. She’s currently concertmaster and personnel manager for The Knickerbocker Chamber Orchestra, concertmaster for the Broadway show My Fair Lady, performs with the Harlem Chamber Players, plus does a wide range of commercial gigs.
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