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.

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Home » Orchestra News » Buffalo Philharmonic Ratifies COVID Pandemic Agreement


Buffalo Philharmonic Ratifies COVID Pandemic Agreement

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The musicians of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra (BPO) recently ratified a side letter to year five of their current six-year contract to help ease the burden of an expected significant financial loss for BPO’s 2020-21 season. The agreement sees the number of weeks change from 40 to 35 while still maintaining the previously negotiated weekly pay raise for the coming season. This will result in a nearly 12% drop in annual wages.

Many safety protocols were included in another side letter to allow the musicians to safely return to work. These include all of the AFM suggestions for health monitoring and risk mitigation in addition to 90-minute rehearsals without breaks. Distancing will be provided for onstage and backstage. BPO management is providing masks.

BPO musicians are members of Local 92 (Buffalo, NY).







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