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.
May 15, 2014
In the latest move to come to grips with its Nazi past, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra will return a neo-impressionist Paul Signac painting to its rightful owners. The Nazis looted the painting from French resistance figure and publisher Marcel Koch and gave it to the orchestra in 1940. It will be given to Koch’s heirs. […]
Read MoreMay 15, 2014
The Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO), which announced this in March that it was close to depleting its cash reserves, has raised enough money to finish its 2013-2014 season. MSO held several benefit concerts and received two $100,000 donations since its public appeal.
Read MoreMay 15, 2014
The San Diego Opera’s board of directors may take steps to try and save the company through a reorganization plan, according to a San Diego Union-Tribune report.
Read MoreMay 15, 2014
The Oregon Symphony announced that it brought in more than $7 million in ticket sales this season, setting an organizational record and comprising 50% of the orchestra’s budget. Ticket sale revenue was at $5.5 million at this time last year. As part of a contract negotiated last year, the musicians have been involved in working […]
Read MoreMay 15, 2014
The Houston Symphony reached a four-year contract agreement calling for musician salary increases of 2.85% annually, which will bring salaries to $97,240 by the end of the term. The agreement was reached ahead of schedule and goes into effect October 5. The contract will allow for additional concerts and expanded community and education activities.
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May 1, 2014
Deacon John Moore,72, president of Local 174-496 (New Orleans, LA) says he’s proud that he’s managed to make a comfortable living as a musician for his entire life. He credits his versatility, business sense, and union membership for much of his success.
Read MoreApril 23, 2014
Peavey’s Vypyr Pro modeling amp offers realistic tube sounding distortion, plus more than 500 presets and 100 models of effects, reverbs, delays, amps, and even instrument models for almost limitless combinations. Vypyr Pro can run up to four amplifier models in parallel. With five parameters to control effects, multiple delay types, microphone simulated direct interface […]
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