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

Executive Board Members, Officer Columns

Help Us, Help You

The fact that we love to play should never be an obstacle to taking care of business. The major reason why the AFM exists is to help you navigate through the challenges of a constantly changing music industry.


The Truth About Right to Work (For Less)

This debate, commonly referred to as “right to work,” still rages to this day. However, today’s political climate and the gains the right to work movement has made over the last two decades are making it more potent and dangerous for the labor movement than ever before.


“… Indivisible …”

My dear brothers and sisters to the North, please be patient, I’ve got a few things to talk about that are primarily a reaction to concerns very much on my mind since the US presidential election.


Creating Visibility Within the Labor Community

Several years ago I wrote an article about the importance of our connection and involvement with other labor organizations in our communities. I feel it bears repeating.


The Power of the (Digital) Paper Trail

This was my first experience with the power of the paper trail, which is a direct result of the protections of working under an AFM contract.


Building a Partnership with Municipal Government

That lesson should not be applied solely to our membership and our organizing efforts, but also to our advocacy and partnership work with municipal governments and agencies


AFM Representatives Participate in 21st Congress of FIM

The International Federation of Musicians (FIM) held its 21st Congress in Reykjavik, Iceland, June 7-9. Attending and representing the AFM were Vice President from Canada Alan Willaert, International Executive Board member Tino Gagliardi, and International Vice President Bruce Fife.


When We Fight, We Win!

It is with great humility and a renewed sense of purpose that I begin this message to you as a newly elected member of the AFM International Executive Board.


WIPO Examines Streaming Inequalities

WIPO Examines Streaming Inequalities—The AFM has made a commitment to continuing its participation as a non-governmental organization in the activities of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).


Election 2016—Make Your Vote Count!

Election 2016—Make Your Vote Count!— Our relationship with affiliate AFL-CIO unions often has us working with members of Congress on a broad range of nonartistic issues such as healthcare, pensions, prevailing wages, and the right to bargain collectively.








NEWS