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.
February 1, 2016
Lyric Opera of Chicago to Be Featured on Great Performances — The Lyric Opera of Chicago and its orchestra’s recent world premiere production of the opera Bel Canto by Jimmy López will be broadcast on the PBS series Great Performances next season.
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iPads Enhance BSO Concert Experience — In an effort to connect with younger patrons, Boston Symphony Orchestra is offering audience members the use of customized iPads with content
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Dallas Symphony Tour Postponed
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Exposure, Promotion, and Protection — The empty promise of “exposure” is often used to convince musicians and artists to give away what they spent a lifetime creating.
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Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Balances Budget — Just two years after the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) implemented an emergency $5 million fundraising campaign to stay afloat,
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Hartford Musicians Accept Pay Cut to Save Orchestra — The musicians of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra (HSO) have voted to accept a wage concession agreement that management claims is necessary to save the orchestra.
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Bob Thompson — Since the 1970s, Thompson has led a series of bands, releasing a steady stream of jazz CDs and performing around the world. He’s also held a 23-year position as house pianist for National Public Radio’s Mountain Stage.
Read MoreJanuary 20, 2016
Guitar Center: Sign Our Agreement or Lose Your Job — Under the agreement the employees lose their right to sue the company in class action lawsuits in disputes over wage violations, workplace discrimination, unjust firings, and other issues.
Read MoreJanuary 20, 2016
Mozart Symphony Date Corrections Fill in Puzzling Gaps — Two of the symphonies were thought to predate Mozart’s visit to Vienna in the summer of 1773. Now that we know they came afterwards, you can see influences and things Mozart learned on the Vienna trip.
Read MoreJanuary 20, 2016
Detroit Teachers Denounce “Third World” Conditions — On January 11 more than 60 Detroit city schools were closed when teachers staged sickouts to protest “Third World” conditions at some schools.
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