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.
January 13, 2016
Calgary Designates 2016 Year of Music — The city will host the Juno Awards in April, plus is home to the popular Sled Island festival.
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2016
Opening Arguments for Hearing to Determine Fate of Union Fees — the Supreme Court began to hear oral arguments in an attempt by anti-union organizations to overturn a 1977 ruling …
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2016
Trumka Denounces Trump for Dividing Workers — AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka called out Donald Trump this week for dividing working people along racial and religious lines, and urged workers not to follow his divisive tactics.
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2016
More Paid Parental Leave in 2016 — Providing workers with six weeks of paid leave to care for newborn children has grown in the US, but there is still more work to be done.
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2016
Boston Hospital Fined by OSHA — The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration has fined the Boston Wydham Beacon Hill “hospital hotel” $12,000 for health violations.
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Michigan Governor Apologizes for Poisoning Water Supply — After many months of community unrest, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has finally expressed regret for poisoning the Flint’s water supply.
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Last Music Store Leaves Music Row — In December, owner Alex Carozza packed his accordion store up after 50 years and relocated to an office building on West 54th Street.
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AFM Member Sues Spotify — The suit seeks $150 million in damages stating that the use of songs not lawfully licensed “creates substantial harm and injury to the copyright holders, and diminishes the integrity of the works.”
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The Jazz Harmony Book: A Course in Adding Chords to Melodies — an engaging and witty guide to developing a nuanced sense of harmonic color, drama, and movement.
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2016
Bruce Springsteen High Hopes — Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) and 399 (Asbury Park, NJ) member Bruce Springsteen’s 2014 album, High Hopes, debuted at number one in the US and nine other countries.
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