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.
July 30, 2026
Members of the Boston Musicians Association, Local 9-535 (Boston, MA), joined nurses and clinicians on the picket line at Brigham and Women’s Hospital on July 9, standing in solidarity with members of the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA) amid what became the largest healthcare labor dispute in Massachusetts history. On July 8, approximately 4,000 registered nurses […]
Read MoreJuly 30, 2026
On June 16, drummer Harold Jones, a member of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA), was honored by the Musicians’ Enduring Legacy Organization (MELO) at a private event at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s famed Appel Room in New York City. MELO’s mission is to tell the stories of musicians, whether household names or lesser-known players, who […]
Read MoreJuly 30, 2026
How the determined DPO players committee is leveraging resources, local solidarity, and public outreach to stand up to bad-faith management. It’s an unfortunate reality that orchestra boards and managements typically never learn from a repeatedly proven lesson: they can’t cut their way to financial health. The industry is filled with examples of orchestras over past […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
The AFM honored George Fiddler, director of the Theatre, Touring, Booking Division and Immigration Services, with the AFM Lifetime Achievement Award. This distinction celebrates Fiddler’s decades of steadfast leadership, unwavering professional integrity, and tireless advocacy on behalf of professional musicians worldwide. The son of legendary violinist Manny Fiddler, George followed his father’s advice and joined […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
Highlighting a new era of cross-border solidarity and organizing campaigns, International President Tino Gagliardi introduced Organizing Services Director Gabe Kristal to present the highly anticipated 2026 AFM Organizing Awards. Kristal praised the sheer grit of the award recipients, emphasizing that modern campaigns require moving beyond the traditional boundaries of the union. Kristal introduced the leaders […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
The AFM Diversity Awards, launched in 2005, recognize outstanding examples of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within the AFM. The awards are presented at the AFM Convention to musicians and locals who advance these values within their communities and the labor movement. Presidents’ Local Award: Local 10-208 (Chicago, IL) The Chicago Federation of Musicians, Local […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
Invariably, most instruments place some sort of strain on the body, especially the neck. Pianists and cellists spend long periods slightly hunched forward, leaning into their instruments. Violinists and guitarists tilt their heads for extended periods. Such demanding physicality places undue stress on the upper spine and shoulder muscles. Over time, these positions can result […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
Blurring the Lines: Sideman, Session Player, and Solo Artist Rising country artist Charlie Worsham of Local 257 (Nashville, TN) is forging his career with intelligent lyrics and thoughtful music making. At the same time, he is following his own unique path as a solo artist. Worsham, a Mississippi native, believes that all music is storytelling. […]
Read MoreJuly 1, 2026
As we pause this month to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday on July 4 and Canada’s 159th birthday on July 1, it is important to reflect on the fact that music came first. Before Europeans arrived on our continent, the music of Native Americans was heard on these lands. Each wave of settlers brought […]
Read MoreJune 1, 2026
by the AFM Diversity Committee Visibility has always been central to organizing, but during Pride Month it takes on added meaning, especially within the American Federation of Musicians. Pride is not only a celebration; it is a reminder that rights, recognition, and dignity have been won because people have made themselves visible, often at great […]
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