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.
August 28, 2015
Emails, social media, and other communication is great way to get in touch with people, but sometimes the most successful way is a good old-fashion phone call.
Read MoreAugust 27, 2015
by Liana White, AFM directrice générale, Canada Nous avons le regret de vous informer que le USCIS, et en particulier le Vermont Service Center, accuse de sérieux retards dans le traitement des demandes. Veuillez noter en outre que l’USCIS n’envoie pas d’avis aux requérants. Nous n’obtenons des nouvelles que si nos dossiers ne sont pas […]
Read MoreAugust 25, 2015
McDonald’s workers, labor leaders, and elected officials from five continents testified before a Brazilian Senate committee last week. The hearing comes as the fight for $15 per hour grows internationally.
Read MoreAugust 25, 2015
“Any Orchestra committees who seek the authority to administer the agreement must also acknowledge the responsibility and liability for decisions…”
Read MoreAugust 24, 2015
The 151 workers voted to join a local chapter of the Teamsters union. They say that they face poor working conditions—lack of ventilation, low wages, poor benefits, and damaged equipment.
Read MoreAugust 24, 2015
The Industrial Workers of the World’s Toronto General Membership Branch will host the Working For Each Other, Working For Ourselves: A Revolutionary Worker-Organizer Summit, October 3-4.
Read MoreAugust 22, 2015
We regret to inform Canadian travelling musicians that USCIS, primarily the Vermont Service Center, is severely backlogged. Please note that USCIS does not notify petitioners
Read MoreAugust 21, 2015
Word of mouth marketing (WOMM), or peer-to-peer marketing, is genuine, emotional conversations people have with their friends about your gigs and music.
Read MoreAugust 20, 2015
As a musician, it cannot be stated enough for you to know your rights. It may sound obvious, but many musicians don’t fully grasp what their rights are.
Read MoreAugust 18, 2015
The US Social Security program turned 80 years old August 14. In honor of the occasion AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka remarked, “For those working for a better life, Social Security is an important family income and disability protection program and the cornerstone of our retirement security.
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