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 15, 2014
This behind-the-scenes look at the job of the conductor provides a step-by-step guide to the basics and nuances of conducting. It contains everything you need to know to lead all types of ensembles. There are suggestions for reading, researching, and marking a score; tips for effective rehearsals; a guide for baton use and proper podium […]
Read MoreJanuary 15, 2014
You may know Vince Guaraldi’s playful jazz piano themes from early Peanuts television specials. This long overdue book looks at the entire career of Guaraldi, beginning with his early work with Cal Tjader and Woody Herman and his Top 40 Grammy-winning hit “Cast Your Fate to the Wind.” This book explores the talent and legacy […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
Based on the Crying Tone wah circuit, the Electro-Harmonix Crying Bass pedal features a specially tuned resonance to enhance the wah effect over the entire harmonic spectrum of the bass guitar. It’s equally adept at adding funky filtering to a deep bass groove and pushing heavy harmonics for solos. In keeping with its bass-centric design, […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
The Roland VT12 Vocal Trainer will go with you in your pocket and on the road so you can warm up and exercise your voice any time. It has built-in exercises and warm-ups to improve your vocal skills. An illuminated pitch meter displays your pitch, and can even detect two singers simultaneously for two-part harmony training. It […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
If you travel with a valuable instrument The Tank is made just for you. Its exterior is completely aluminum with steel latches that can’t open on their own. The handles are sprung to stay against the body when not in use. It features a full-length hinge with 90-degree stops and an incredible interior that cradles […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
The Lexington Philharmonic narrowly avoided a strike of its season-opening concert in September. Salaries were not the issue, but rather, musicians opposed changes to work rules. The most significant among these included management’s call for the removal of the peer-review process, through which musicians have the final say on the dismissal of fellow orchestra members, […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
Musicians and management of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic (NPP) recently negotiated a new contract, which took effect in October and will last through August 2016. The CBA offers musicians modest increases in compensation and benefits. The musicians’ negotiating team included Local 45 (Allentown, PA) President Janice Galassi, who served as chief negotiator; Local 140 (Wilkes-Barre, […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
Members of Dallas Symphony Orchestra approved a new two-year contract, with a start date retroactive to September 1, 2013. Musicians will receive a 1% base salary increase in 2013, as well as a one-time $750 bonus, and will see a 2% increase in 2014. If the orchestra is able to meet its fundraising goals, the […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
After more than a year of negotiations, musicians of the Pacific Symphony reached an agreement with management in early October. The previous contract expired in August 2012 and the musicians continued to play and talk throughout the past season. The four-year agreement is retroactive to August 2012 and lasts through August 2016. Over the life […]
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2014
Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) reported a $1.8 million deficit for its recently concluded fiscal year, citing a drop in donations as the cause. The orchestra had ended its previous two fiscal years with balanced budgets thanks to large, last-minute gifts. MSO currently depends on donations to cover 70% of its budget, and management has noted […]
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