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.
July 6, 2015
The AFM has filed a lawsuit against Sony Music Entertainment, Inc. for collective bargaining agreement violations regarding the Sound Recording Labor Agreement (SRLA).
Read MoreJuly 3, 2015
Seattle’s Fair Trade Music campaign has picked up momentum in recent months. More than 20 clubs have signed on as Fair Trade Music venues, City Council has declared Fair Trade Music Day, and additional musician loading zones are in the works.
Read MoreJuly 2, 2015
by Dan Beck, Trustee, Music Performance Trust Fund On April 30, 2015, the Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) wrapped up its fiscal year for the 67th time in its storied history. The 2014-2015, 12-month period was an eventful one. We co-sponsored 2,777 performances throughout the US and Canada—music festivals, community programs, educational initiatives, and outreach […]
Read MoreJuly 2, 2015
With a steady day gig as music director and bandleader for the Basic Cable Band on Conan, and involvement in enough side bands to make your head spin, life for musician Jimmy Vivino, of Locals 47 (Los Angeles, CA) and 802 (New York City), is full. Being bandleader is what he’s worked toward for his entire life.
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
The Richmond Symphony has purchased a 70-foot outdoor performance tent after successfully completing its $500,000 Big Tent Initiative and winning a $500,000 challenge grant from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
Just in time for the festival season, Rock-N-Roller Multi-Cart announces the arrival of R16RT and R18RT Ground Glider Multi-Carts for rough terrain.
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
UK Launches Social Media Crackdown and it’s one of the biggest-ever enforcement operations of its kind in a concerted effort to combat online piracy…
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
Following six months of field testing with some of the world’s finest clarinetists, Vandoren has launched an affordable custom designed mouthpiece, the Black Diamond Ebonite BD5 Bb.
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
Remo’s Dorado cajons are designed and handcrafted in California using birch wood and two sets of three high-quality compression springs
Read MoreJuly 1, 2015
by Nathan Kahn, Negotiator, AFM Symphonic Services Division It has been a number of years since the International Musician has put forth articles on negotiation surveys, and therefore, it is timely to re-examine this important component of the negotiation process. In preparation for collective bargaining, adequate and accurate surveying of the membership is one of […]
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