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

International Musician, Recent News

Employer Fined Following Workplace Death

Employer Mark Welty was fined over $280,000, in penalties after his employee Nicholson Tinker was killed on the job due to a hazardous work environment. Tinker was killed when a cinderblock wall collapsed on him during a demolition. Welty acted with plain indifference towards the health and safety of his employees—lack of proper structural assessment, inadequate bracing and shoring for the wall, and lack of safety training for the employees.


Florida Unions Call for Living Wage

All three Florida Democratic candidates for governor support raising minimum wage to $15 an hour.


CIW Women’s Group Sends Letter to Wendy’s CEO

In early October, CIW sent a letter to Wendy’s CEO Todd Penegor, along with the company’s board chair and a major shareholder, that called attention to sexual violence that occurs in Wendy’s supply chain and requested a meeting to discuss the issue.


Risking Your Life for Minimum Wage

During the outbreak of fires in California, about 20% of the fire fighters who were called to duty were earning just $10.50 per hour, minimum wage.


Whistleblower Fired

Though the hotel general manager claims that he was terminated due to “serious and demonstrable misconduct,” it is suspicious that the firing came one day before the Anchorage Assembly passed new protections for whistleblowers reporting mold in public buildings like hotels.


Postal Workers Rally in Boston

On October 18, Postal workers and their supporters rallied in front of Boston’s main post office to protest job cutbacks that have led to long lines and delivery delays around New England.


Orchestra Steps Up to Heal the Island

Hurricane Maria left many of Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra members homeless and 3 week later, they began a series of free concerts to help heal the island.


Truckers Ready to Aid Relief Efforts in Puerto Rico

Major labor unions in the US are organizing truck drivers to help with Puerto Rico relief efforts following Hurricane Maria. The problem is exacerbated by the shortage of diesel fuel and blocked roadways due to hurricane debris and damage.


Steven Tyler Selected for Nashville Harmony Award

Musician and philanthropist Steven Tyler of Local 7 (Orange County, CA) has been named the Nashville Symphony’s 2017 Harmony Award winner. The Harmony Award recognizes the individual who best exemplifies the harmonious spirit of Nashville’s musical community.


Dolly Parton Honored with Gary Haber Award

In September, Dolly Parton was honored by receiving the Gary Haber Lifting Lives Award at the 52nd Academy of Country Music Awards.








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