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.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AFM

IM



2016 Symphonic Player Conference Schedule

ROPA Conference  |  July 26-28  |  Madison, Wisconsin The 2016 annual Regional Orchestra Players’ Association (ROPA) Conference will be held July 26-28. A negotiations seminar will take place July 25, starting in the morning. The ROPA Executive Board offers their sincere appreciation to Local 166 (Madison, WI), Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, and Madison Symphony for their […]

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Singer Brad Paisley Rallies for Flood Victims

On June 23rd, West Virginia, home state of country singer Brad Paisley of local 257 (Nashville, TN) experienced one of the deadliest floods in the state’s history, which killed more than 20 people and destroyed entire small towns. He’s doing something big to help, and he needs your support.

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Weston Sprott Lays His Cards on the Table

Weston Sprott, acting principal trombone for the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra describes a perfect night at work: “A Strauss or Puccini opera with a great conductor and cast, and a run of good cards at the poker table during intermission.”

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The Golden Gate Park Band Celebrates 134th Season

The Golden Gate Park Band (GGPB) of Local 6 (San Francisco, CA) kicked off the summer with an all-American repertoire of patriotic music for Memorial Day.

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Veteran Musician and Union Member Edward Avedisian Receives Medal of Honor

The National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) has awarded musician and philanthropist Edward Avedisian of Local 9-535 (Boston, MA) the 2016 Ellis Island Medal of Honor.

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While Firmly Entrenched in the Phoenix Music Scene, Joe Costello Still Longs for the Road

Joe Costello of Local 586 (Phoenix, AZ) put his promising music career as a drummer on hold nearly 25 years ago. At the time, the now 54-year-old musician says, “I thought I would save money and stash it

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Athletes and the Arts: Staying Healthy as a Musician

At some point the number of practice hours may hurt rather than help. Consider focused practice segments with different goals in each session. Rote repetition for extended periods of time has not proven successful.

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Contract Basics for Touring Artists

Knowledge of contracts is a must for every touring artist. A contract ensures that both parties communicate their understanding of the details of an engagement. And it binds both parties to honor its provisions.

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Making the Most of Player Conference Membership

This summer our conference will be at the Hotel Arts in Calgary. All are invited to attend the open sessions August 9-11.

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Imagine a Better World

What did impress me was the thousands of people in Orlando lining up to give blood following the appeal of local hospitals. There are always more people wanting to help than there are people wanting to hurt.

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