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.
January 18, 2017
2017 marks Canada’s sesquicentennial (there’s a good word for you logophiles and Scrabble players). Orchestras across the country will be celebrating our rich musical heritage. Perhaps the largest-scale project is the Toronto Symphony Orchestra’s Canada Mosaic. Funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage, it is described on their website: “A pan-Canadian Signature Initiative of Canada 150, includes the creation of new works by Canadian composers, a celebration of Canadian legacy works and artists, digital resources for all ages, and orchestral collaborations across the country.”
Read MoreJanuary 16, 2017
My dear brothers and sisters to the North, please be patient, I’ve got a few things to talk about that are primarily a reaction to concerns very much on my mind since the US presidential election.
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2017
Father Alphonse Stephenson of Local 802 (New York City) is conductor and director of one of the most successful small orchestral ensembles in the country. Located in Providence, New Jersey, the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea recently marked its 30th anniversary.
Read MoreJanuary 10, 2017
At 60 years old, Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry says she’s inching toward her prime. “Maybe there are several primes,” she muses.
Read MoreJanuary 3, 2017
McCutcheon’s father bought him his first guitar, a Silvertone from Sears. “That began the long downhill slide into professional musicianship,” laughs McCutcheon
Read MoreJanuary 2, 2017
This Greatest Hits series of books for piano, vocal, and guitar, each covers a decade of music with more than 40 pop music favorites. Piano accompaniment, vocal melodies, lyrics, and guitar chord diagrams are included. Currently available are The 1960s, The 1990s, and more.
Read MoreJanuary 2, 2017
Exploring Classical Mandolin will give you an introduction to mandolin, including techniques from around the world, common practices, and essential repertoire.
Read MoreJanuary 2, 2017
An essential resource for anyone who loves music and group singing, Rise Again is the second songbook from Local 1000 (Nongeographic) members Peter Blood and Anne Patterson.
Read MoreJanuary 2, 2017
Even through the roar of the open road, The Beaches’ youthful optimism reverberates on the other end of a speakerphone call.
Read MoreJanuary 1, 2017
DW Drums Black Sheep Beater was designed by drummer Rich Redmond of Local 257 (Nashville, TN). The adjustable bass drum beater offers drummers easy solutions for changing the sound of their bass drums on the fly.
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