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.
February 1, 2016
The Complete Story on Canadian Work Permits — For many years getting a work permit to bring your band to Canada for a bar, pub, or restaurant gig was a reality.
Read MoreDecember 1, 2015
Crossing Borders: Why Bad Things Happen to Good Artists — In the ever-changing and complex world of performance, today’s artist, especially a touring artist, must keep abreast of new regulations and be aware of the basic requirements for contracts, touring, visas, work permits, withholding, and taxation.
Read MoreNovember 6, 2015
Crossing Borders: Time Is of the Essence —Musicians crossing borders to perform need to know that time is of the essence dealing with requisite paperwork.
Read MoreSeptember 18, 2015
Most artists should take advantage of central withholding agreements (CWA) with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to reduce this withholding amount.
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