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.
January 11, 2016
Michigan Governor Apologizes for Poisoning Water Supply — After many months of community unrest, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder has finally expressed regret for poisoning the Flint’s water supply.
January 11, 2016
Last Music Store Leaves Music Row — In December, owner Alex Carozza packed his accordion store up after 50 years and relocated to an office building on West 54th Street.
January 11, 2016
AFM Member Sues Spotify — The suit seeks $150 million in damages stating that the use of songs not lawfully licensed “creates substantial harm and injury to the copyright holders, and diminishes the integrity of the works.”
January 11, 2016
Meghan Trainor Takes People’s Choice Award
January 11, 2016
Renewed Call for Boycott of Malaysian Orchestra Auditions — While the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) continues to advertise internationally for its auditions, musicians are cautioned to steer clear of this symphony known for its egregious contract violations.
January 11, 2016
App Could Block Cell Phone Usage — A new startup, Yondr, has created a device that will automatically lock these cell phones and tablets once the concertgoers enter the “no-phone zone” of a show.
January 11, 2016
Cleveland Contract Provides Raises — The deal is retroactive to August 31 and is effective through 2017-2018 season.
January 11, 2016
Hartford Symphony Orchestra Board Threatens Closure — The Hartford Symphony Orchestra (HSO) board has threatened that the symphony could shut down at the end of January unless its musicians make significant concessions.
January 11, 2016
Retiring COO Mancini Reflects on His Years at the AFM — Lew Mancini has worked for the AFM for 40 years. In its 120-year history, the AFM has had 12 presidents.
January 11, 2016
Former AFM Director Dick Gabriel (1940-2015), A True Friend to Recording Musicians — Former AFM Director of Electronic Media Services Division (EMSD) and Assistant to the President Dick Gabriel passed away at the end of November.