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.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AFM

Orchestra News

Improved Contract for Glimmerglass Festival Orchestra

In December, Glimmerglass Festival Orchestra ratified a four-year CBA under which its musicians, represented by Local 443 (Oneonta, NY), will see wage increases and other significant improvements.


CFM Lobbyist Recognized

In February, the Canadian Federation of Musicians, represented by Vice President from Canada Alan Willaert and Executive Director Liana White, joined in honoring CFM Lobbyist Isabel Metcalfe, who is stepping down from her chair position on the board of Famous Five, Ottawa chapter.


The Philadelphia Orchestra to Tour Europe and Israel

This spring, May 24 through June 5, The Philadelphia Orchestra will tour Europe and Israel. The visit to Israel is part of a new partnership between the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and the orchestra, designed to engage new members of the Philadelphia community.


Hommage à une lobbyiste de la Fédération canadienne des musiciens

En février, au nom de la Fédération canadienne des musiciens, Alan Willaert, vice président pour le Canada, et Liana White, directrice générale, ont rendu hommage à la lobbyiste de la FCM, Isabel Metcalfe, qui quitte la présidence du conseil au bureau d’Ottawa des Famous Five (Cinq femmes célèbres). Madame Metcalfe a milité avec courage et […]


Judge Dismisses Copyright Suit Against Taylor Swift

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit that accused Local 257 (Nashville, TN) member Taylor Swift of copyright infringement relating to her hit song “Shake It Off.”


Vermont Symphony Orchestra Musicians Gain AFM Representation

Musicians of the Vermont Symphony Orchestra will soon enjoy the benefits of a collective bargaining agreement and AFM protection, with the overwhelming majority voting to organize. The NLRB-stipulated election was held January 25 after a successful campaign led through the joint efforts of Local 9-535 (Boston, MA) and Local 171 (Springfield, MA). VSO musicians Nancy […]


AFM Members Among USA Fellows

Two AFM members of Local 802 (New York City) are among this year’s United States Arts (USA) fellows. Jazz saxophonist and composer Wayne Shorter and composer, conductor, educator Tania León will each receive unrestricted $50,000 cash awards.


NY Philharmonic Rings in Year of the Dog

The New York Philharmonic’s annual Lunar New Year Concert and Gala, led by Long Wu, featured Local 802 (New York City) violin soloist Elizabeth Zeltser, Local 802 percussion soloist David Cossin, and championship ping pong players Ariel Hsing and Michael Landers.


Orpheus Chamber Orchestra Ratifies New Agreement

In November, the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra announced that it has ratified a new CBA with its musicians, effective through 2020.


Cleveland Receives $15 Million Gift

Richard and Emily Smucker have pledged $15 million to The Cleveland Orchestra in celebration of its 100th season, funding new educational programs.








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