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.

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IM



Canadian Orchestras Celebrate Our Country’s 150th Anniversary

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.”

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“… Indivisible …”

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.

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Retired Chaplain Brigadier General Alphonse Stephenson Serves as Maestro

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.

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Northern Star: Jane Siberry on a New Musical Journey

At 60 years old, Canadian singer-songwriter Jane Siberry says she’s inching toward her prime. “Maybe there are several primes,” she muses.

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John McCutcheon: Folk Musician’s Celebrates Activism

McCutcheon’s father bought him his first guitar, a Silvertone from Sears. “That began the long downhill slide into professional musicianship,” laughs McCutcheon

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Greatest Hits for Piano

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.

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Exploring Classical Mandolin Technique and Repertoire

Exploring Classical Mandolin will give you an introduction to mandolin, including techniques from around the world, common practices, and essential repertoire.

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Rise Again Songbook

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.

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Life’s a Beach: Toronto Rock Group, The Beaches, Head Out on the Road with a New Album, New Tour, and Big Ideas

Even through the roar of the open road, The Beaches’ youthful optimism reverberates on the other end of a speakerphone call.

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DW Drums Black Sheep Beater

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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