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



Lou Marini: The Joy of Providing Blueness to Fellow Musicians

Currently, Marini is working on a CD of originals inspired by his frequent trips to his wife’s native Spain.

Read More

CFM Commends Government Commitment to Canada’s Creative Industries

Canadian Federation of Musicians (CFM) praised the federal government’s investment in Canada’s cultural organizations.

Read More

When the Sound Won’t Stop – 3 Ways to Battle Tinnitus

People with tinnitus can find relief by using hearing aids and other sound-amplification devices. Like a microphone, amplifier, or speaker, hearing aids can supplement the volume of outside noise and increase the amount of sound stimuli received and processed by the body’s auditory system.

Read More

Tell Congress to Stop Raiding Social Security

AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler says, “It’s time to push back against a loophole created by Republicans, which allows outstanding federal student loan debt to be taken from Social Security benefits.”

Read More

Fair Trade Music and the Importance of Organizing Club Musician

By the time you read this, the AFM Western Conference of Musicians will have taken place in Reno, Nevada. Local 76-493 (Seattle, WA) President Motter Snell is president of the conference this year, and has scheduled, as its centerpiece, a full day of discussions and training on organizing and Fair Trade Music.

Read More

Johnny Cowell: Toronto Trumpet Soloist Still Performing at 90 Years Old

Johnny Cowell, a 73-year member of Local 149 (Toronto, ON), is considered to be one of Canada’s most renowned trumpet soloists. Over the years, he’s worked with many of Canada’s symphony orchestras and concert bands.

Read More

SoundExchange Launches New ISRC Search Site

SoundExchange’s new Search Site of International Standard Recording Codes (ISRCs) will improve licensing and royalty payment for musicians.

Read More

Jimmy McIntosh Creates CD with His Heroes

You could say that Las Vegas guitarist Jimmy McIntosh has built his life and career around music business connections. The best example may be his latest CD, Jimmy McIntosh and … which features McIntosh exchanging licks with some of his personal heroes…

Read More

Robert Earl Keen: A Unique Perspective on Songwriting and Success

Texas troubadour whose witty words and infectious melodies have proved a winning combination, says he stumbled onto the musical side of word-smithing by accident.

Read More

How to Self-Manage Your Personal Finances and Life

How to Self-Manage Your Personal Finances and Life — The time will one day come when you are making great money and hiring business managers. But until then, here are a few tips on managing your own financial life.

Read More

NEWS