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

Secretary-Treasurer

Ken Shirk – AFM International Secretary-Treasurer

News and Notes from the Secretary-Treasurer’s Desk

2016 AFM Budget – The AFM International Executive Board (IEB) held its third quarter board meeting in November. As per the AFM Bylaws, the third quarter is the budget meeting, and according to the Bylaws the IEB is required to have a balanced budget. The IEB approved a balanced budget for 2016.


A Combination of Sun Tzu and Will Rogers

Needs to be said and I’m the one to say it! I remember the AFM Convention in 1983 very well. First, because it was when I first ran and became a member of the AFM International Executive Board (IEB), and secondly, because it’s when I first met my friend Ray Hair. You know when you […]


Are You Getting the Most from Health Care Reform?

It’s been five years since Congress passed health care reform, but many people are still missing out on possible savings, like lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs, just because they don’t know about them.


AFM Publications Among ILCA Award Winners

Each year the International Labor Communications Association (ILCA) recognizes the best and most inspiring work in labor communications and journalism. Among the winners were several AFM local submissions.


Wind Up Your Summer the Union Way

During August and early September, especially during Labor Day weekend, millions of American workers will enjoy their hard-earned time off. Though vacation is time off from your job, it’s not a time to leave your union membership behind.


2014 Annual Report Time

Financially I am pleased to report that, for the fourth year in a row, the Federation has finished in the black with income outpacing expenses. However, budget expectations were not met because the financial growth, as set by the 2013 AFM Convention, fell short.


Union Summer Kicks Off with May Day

The summer 2015 officially kicked off for unions across the country with International Workers’ Day (or May Day) celebrations. Many AFM Locals took part in their cities. For a history of May Day and photos of several locals at this year’s May Day events see page eight


International Musician Print Edition Is Valued

One of the first things I did in 2005, as the incoming AFM Secretary-Treasurer was to take inventory of the responsibilities of the position.


Could the Working America Concept Work for Musicians?

One of the fastest growing organizations in the country is Working America (www.workingamerica.org). It mobilizes working people 365 days a year, contacting them at home to talk about jobs, health care, politics, and items that working families confront daily.


International Musician, Updated for Today’s Musicians

As the publisher of the International Musician, it is my duty to update you on the progress of some of the directives and recommendations set forth by the International Musician Committee…








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