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

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Violinist Diane McElfish Helle Delivers Musical Hope to Patients

Diane McElfish Helle, 59, of AFM Local 56 (Grand Rapids, MI), is an accomplished violinist with the Grand Rapids Symphony. From a family of pianists, McElfish Helle began playing the piano at age five, and then picked up the violin in fourth grade as part of a public school program in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She discovered an immediate affinity for the instrument, and hasn’t put it down since.

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AFM Locals Prepare the Next Generation

AFM Locals Prepare the Next Generation by taking an active role in promoting education in schools, neighborhoods, and performing venues through community programs…

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Ann and Nancy Wilson Four Decades of Heartfelt Music

If you want to know what it was like for the first female rockers, talk to Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart. The multi-instrumentalists and members of Local 76-493 (Seattle, WA) were pioneers, but when they began making music, gender didn’t enter into the equation; they just knew they wanted to rock.

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Vexter Double Rock

When musician J.Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.) requested two Box of Rock pedals in one box with two stomp switches, Zvex knew he was on to something…

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Roland JUNO-DS Synthesizer

The Roland JUNO-DS synthesizer is a powerful tool for performance and recording. It features improved pianos, organ sounds, waveform expansion capability…

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Work Those Fingers

The only way to develop superior hand strength, endurance, and coordination is to challenge and develop each finger. So, work those fingers.

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90 Years Ago—1925

90 Years Ago—1925—German trade union officials, welcomed by the AFL, arrived in the US to study the industrial conditions and American trade union methods.

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Tips on Media Releases and Photographs

Tips on Media Releases and Photographs. Get the media on your side, by writing effective press releases and taking media-ready promotional photos…

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Electro-Harmonix KEY9 Piano Machine

The Electro-Harmonix KEY9 Piano Machine emulates classic Wurlitzer and Rhodes sounds, as well as organ, vibraphone, marimba, steel drums…

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Warm Up with a WOW

The repetitive stress musicians subject their bodies to is comparable to what an athlete endures. A pro athlete would never dream of performing or even practicing without first warming up. In order to perform with the least risk of injury, the muscles, tendons, and joints need blood circulating through them properly so they remain strong […]

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