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.
October 1, 2024
Chris McDonald Jazz Orchestra Veteran orchestrator and trombonist Chris McDonald of Local 257 (Nashville, TN) has been an accomplished composer and arranger of big band music for decades. It’s About Time, his ninth studio album, is a contemporary jazz odyssey of eight original compositions and arrangements of two cover songs. The album features an all-star […]
September 28, 2024
The AFM was proud to be among the many sponsoring guests at the annual banquet with Representative Judy Chu (D-CA) on September 15 at the Sheraton Los Angeles San Gabriel. Chu, who has long been a friend to musicians, is running for reelection to continue representing the 28th District in the US House. “I so […]
September 28, 2024
Ten years ago the recording industry’s Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF) created MusicianFest, an initiative to sponsor musical performances in senior centers, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. Over the course of the decade, the grants have funded over 7,500 events at an investment of over $2.5 million. “MusicianFest has been spearheaded by Director of Grant […]
September 5, 2024
On September 4, AFM members and supporters gathered to kick off negotiations for a new Live TV and Video contract with the major networks. Led by the Five Borough Brass band, members of AFM Local 802 (New York City), the rally brought together musicians and other entertainment union members to advocate for fair compensation and […]
September 1, 2024
Imagine a world without music. Things would be very different, to say the least. Music plays so many roles in our daily lives. It may be easy to take it for granted, but those of us who have been able to make a living doing what we love will never do that. As professional musicians, […]
September 1, 2024
It is my pleasure to welcome you to this year’s International Musician issue focused on electronic media and the Electronic Media Services Division (EMSD). This division serves and protects the interests of nonsymphonic recording musicians. The AFM Symphonic Services Division represents symphony, opera, ballet, and chamber orchestra electronic media projects. Last December, EMSD hired Rebecca […]
September 1, 2024
by Rebecca Gurnee, AFM Electronic Media Services Division Assistant Director In January and February 2024, the AFM made significant strides in negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), resulting in a new set of Basic Theatrical and Basic Television Motion Picture agreements. These negotiations, culminating in an agreement on February 23, […]
August 31, 2024
Vice President from Canada Emeritus David J. Jandrisch passed away August 5 at age 84. A member of Local 190 (Winnipeg, MB) for more than 60 years, he launched his music career at age 15 and performed as an instrumentalist on more than 3,000 radio and television shows. Jandrisch was president of Local 190 for […]
August 31, 2024
HUB International Signs on as Group Insurance Broker After a rigorous discernment process, the AFM International Executive Board has entered into an agreement with HUB International as its new US group membership insurance program administrator, replacing AMBA, effective September 1. HUB (www.hubinternational.com) is the world’s largest privately-owned insurance broker, with revenues topping $4 billion and […]
August 31, 2024
Local 56 (Grand Rapids, MI) recently completed an incredibly successful membership campaign. In all, their ranks grew nearly 25% during a seven-month drive to bring in new members and reinstate former members. “We are delighted to see so many new faces joining our local,” says Local 56 President Bennie Keys. “The importance of belonging to […]