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.
March 14, 2016
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 MoreMarch 11, 2016
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 MoreMarch 9, 2016
SoundExchange’s new Search Site of International Standard Recording Codes (ISRCs) will improve licensing and royalty payment for musicians.
Read MoreMarch 9, 2016
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 MoreMarch 4, 2016
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 MoreFebruary 29, 2016
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 MoreFebruary 29, 2016
Blues legend, accomplished guitarist, and Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) member Bonnie Raitt was fortunate to have early opportunities to play with legends of the genre.
Read MoreFebruary 29, 2016
Handcrafted in Colorado Springs for musicians, the Westone UM Pro 10 in-ear monitors deliver extraordinary detail and clarity in a compact ergonomic package.
Read MoreFebruary 29, 2016
Mackie’s ProDX series mixers combine the power of digital mixing and an ultra-compact form factor that’s perfect for solo performers, small bands, venues, and commercial applications that require lower channel counts.
Read MoreFebruary 29, 2016
Orange Amplification’s O Bass was originally created solely as a demonstrator piece for the 2014 Winter NAMM. Soon after the show, Orange was inundated with requests for the instrument.
Read More