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

Orchestra News

AFM Members Join in Working People’s Day of Action

Working People’s Day of Action was about demanding an end to the rigged economy and defending our freedoms. On February 24, working people across the country came together to defend our freedoms and fight for decent and equitable pay for our work, affordable health care, quality schools, vibrant communities, and a secure future for all.


Dayton Musicians Head Off Wage Reopener

Musicians of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra (DPO), members of Local 101-473 (Dayton, OH), recently headed off an attempt by their employer to reopen talks when the ink was barely dry on a memorandum of agreement for a new CBA.


La FCM tient un sommet anti-harcèlement de l’industrie de la musique

Le 1er mars dernier, à Toronto, a eu lieu le lancement par la Fédération canadienne des musiciens du premier sommet anti-harcèlement de l’industrie canadienne de la musique. Présente via Skype, la ministre du Patrimoine canadien, Mélanie Joly, s’est adressée aux participants.


What Is Your Artistry Worth?

Every musician, regardless of genre or instrument, studies to attain artistry and practices to achieve excellence. There is no shortage of learning opportunities for serious musicians, from conservatories and music schools to private teachers and YouTube videos. What is lacking is education on what artistry is worth in a professional commercial marketplace and in the nonprofit sector.


Social Media Campaign Recovers Stolen Cello

French soloist Ophelie Gaillard’s was robbed of the 18th-century cello she plays at knifepoint outside her home in a Paris suburb.


Los Angeles Philharmonic Announces 100th Anniversary Season: LA Phil 100

Los Angeles Philharmonic has announced an ambitious season to mark its 100th anniversary. Aside from an exciting centennial program, the orchestra will mark the milestone with educational and social-impact initiatives, as well as public celebrations.


New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Ratifies Five-Year Contract

The musicians of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, represented by Local 16-248 (Newark, NJ), have ratified a five-year contract, retroactive to September 1, 2017.


Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Undertakes Historic Fundraising Campaign

Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has announced one of the largest fundraising campaigns in its 101-year history, aiming to raise $65 million by December 2019.


Disney Union Coalition Files Unfair Labor Complaint

A coalition of unions for workers at Walt Disney World Resorts filed a federal unfair labor practices complaint accusing the company of holding employees’ $1,000 bonuses hostage during contract negotiations.


Nashville Lawmakers Act to Protect Contractors

Lawmakers in Nashville have introduced a new piece of legislation that would extend the state’s sexual harassment protections to include, not only employees of a given business, but contractors as well.








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