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 24, 2018
AFM Local 6 members joined the line in solidarity with UNITE HERE Local 2 workers striking the San Francisco Marriott Marquis. A total of eight musicians participated in six shifts over two days.
October 15, 2018
Each year, BBC Radio 4 releases a list of the most powerful women in the music industry. This “Women’s Hour Power List” features women that are performers, business owners, musicians, and executives and have a strong influence in the industry.
October 15, 2018
Wendell Harrison, member of Local 5 (Detroit, MI), was recently named the 2018 Kresge Eminent Artist. This lifetime achievement award honors a musician who has had a significant impact on the cultural environment of Detroit and is dedicated to the development of Detroit’s cultural community and residents.
October 9, 2018
Vijay Gupta, member of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA), was recently named a MacArthur Fellow. His work with the homeless and under-resourced communities has inspired musicians all over the Los Angeles area.
October 8, 2018
Tania León, member of Local 802 (New York, NY), was recently elected to the board of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in the Visual Arts and Performing Arts – Criticism and Practice category.
October 3, 2018
On September 28, 2018, the 29th annual International Bluegrass Music Association awards were held in Raleigh, North Carolina. Many groups and individuals were recognized that evening, including many members of Local 257 (Nashville, TN).
October 3, 2018
On September 27, Local 257 (Nashville, TN) member Ricky Skaggs was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame during the International Bluegrass Music Awards in Raleigh, North Carolina. Fellow Local 257 member Marty Stuart had the honor of inducting Skaggs.
October 3, 2018
See what AFM members did on Labor Day!
October 2, 2018
In September, AFM International Executive Board Member and Local 802 (New York City) President Tino Gagliardi was honored by City & State as one of the 50 most powerful leaders in New York’s labor community.
October 1, 2018
The AFM & SAG-AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund is pleased to announce the appointment of Sidney Kibodeaux White to the role of chief operating officer.