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

Books-Resources, Products

the real vocal book

The Real Vocal Book: Volume IV LOW Voice


Hal Leonard’s answer to the fake book, The Real Vocal Book is legally and professionally copied and meticulously checked for accuracy in melody, harmony, and rhythms.




The Complete Guide to Connecting Audio, Video, and MIDI Equipment


Correct audio, video, and MIDI connections are crucial, especially with the wide range of hardware and software options available today.




Howard Shore Collection Volumes 1 and 2

Howard Shore Collection Volumes 1 and 2


Academy Award winner Howard Shore is best known for his elegant and eclectic television and film scores. Volume 1 is a compendium of 22 of the multi award-winning composer’s most well-known titles for piano and vocals, including:




Daniels’ Orchestral Music

Daniels’ Orchestral Music


Daniels’ Orchestral Music is an in-depth guide for conductors, music programmers, orchestra librarians, and students researching orchestral programs.




Confessions of a Vintage Guitar Dealer: The Memoirs of Norman Harris


Norman Harris, owner of Norman’s Rare Guitars, has bought and sold treasured guitars for more than 50 years.




Music Direction for the Stage: A View from the Podium


Music directors for the stage draw on many skills—conducting, arranging, orchestration, choral directing, vocal coaching, and accompanying—yet the job remains relatively undocumented.




let me out

Let Me Out: Unlock Your Creative Mind and Bring Your Ideas to Life


Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) member Peter Himmelman has made a living in the creative world for more than 35 years, first as a musician, then as a top speaker and consultant on creativity and leadership for businesses around the world through his company Big Muse.




Banjo: An Illustrated History


This beautifully illustrated book offers a comprehensive history of the banjo in its many forms. It traces the story of the instrument from its roots in West Africa to its “birth” in the Americas and its coming of age in the Industrial Revolution.




mighty mandolin chord songbook

The Mighty Mandolin Chord Songbook


This collection includes lyrics, chord symbols, and mandolin chord diagrams for 100 pop, rock, and folk favorites, including:




Ray Brown Legendary Jazz Bassist

Ray Brown Legendary Jazz Bassist


Written as a tribute to Ray Brown, Ray Brown Legendary Jazz Bassist, includes 18 transcriptions by Matthew Rybicki of Local 802 (New York City).










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