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.
May 29, 2020
After Cleveland Jazz Orchestra musicians unanimously signed cards stating they are joining together in union, the orchestra’s board of trustees unanimously voted to voluntarily recognize the Cleveland Federation of Musicians, Local 4 (Cleveland, OH), as the musicians’ exclusive bargaining agent.
March 30, 2020
On March 17, 2020 a bill that will provide additional funding for the Baltimore Symphony was passed by the Maryland General Assembly and awaits Governor Hogan’s signature to become law.
March 27, 2020
Because large gatherings are no longer allowed due to COVID-19, musicians are turning to other digital solutions, such as live streaming, to perform.
March 27, 2020
In the interest of public health and in compliance with local health advisories, orchestras across the United States and Canada have canceled, postponed, or curtailed performances, educational offerings, and other public events.
March 16, 2020
By Kevin Case, ICSOM Counsel and Member of Local 10-208 (Chicago, IL) Editor’s note: This article was a memo sent to International Conference of Symphony and Opera Musicians (ICSOM) delegates and committee chairs, and a version of this is appearing in the ICSOM newsletter Senza Sordino. It is being reprinted with permission. Dear Delegates: As you […]
March 8, 2020
The Boston Landmarks Orchestra voted by an overwhelming majority to ratify a first CBA with the Boston Musicians Association (BMA), Local 9-535 (Boston, MA).
March 1, 2020
Seven months in advance of the expiration of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), musicians and management of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) ratified a new contract in January.
March 1, 2020
African-American violinist Melissa White, of Local 802 (New York City), was a featured soloist with the National Philharmonic Orchestra in a Black History Month celebration, “Black Classical Music Pioneers.”
March 1, 2020
With Project 19, the New York Philharmonic is commissioning new works by 19 woman composers in celebration of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote 100 years ago.
March 1, 2020
Both the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra announced in early February that they changed course for plans to tour in Asia due to the coronavirus outbreak.