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.
June 12, 2014
The Tommy Emmanuel Experience explores the incredible talent and charisma of one of the world’s greatest guitar players. As fan Dick Ward follows Emmanuel to concerts and workshops all around the country, he discovers, not only the depth of the Australian guitarist’s genius, but the man behind the guitar as well. This is not just […]
June 11, 2014
Containing the heartfelt contributions of 135 industry singers, producers, engineers, coaches, doctors, agents, managers, and social media gurus, The Ultimate Guide to Singing offers singers insights that only come from years of valuable experience. The content follows a singer’s life and includes information on a wide variety of topics: getting gigs, working with gear, improving […]
February 1, 2014
Acoustic Rock Riffs provides a one-stop library for more than 50 of the most popular riffs and intros every acoustic guitar player should know.
February 1, 2014
This book covers 1,000 years of classical music in a fun and easy-to-read format. It’s packed with color photographs, composer biographies, and information on major works and innovations, arranged in chronological order from Early Music (1000-1600) through Modern Music (1900-present). The first three chapters introduce the basic elements of classical music, classical instruments, and a […]
January 15, 2014
According to drum educator Dom Famularo, Daily Drumset Workout is “your personal drumming coach to take you step-by-step and feel your ideas come alive.” Dedicated drummer, teacher, and author Claus Hessler has researched and discovered the best ways to learn. He’ll teach you new rhythmic skills that facilitate greater security and musical freedom no matter […]
January 15, 2014
This book contains in-depth lessons and two CDs of performances by drumming greats such as Local 47 members Gregg Bissonette, Peter Erskine, and Dave Weckl, and Local 298 (Niagara Region, ON) member Neil Peart. In 26 lessons, eight legendary drummers reveal their secrets to solos, fills, double-bass grooves, polyrhythms, sticking and ostinato patterns, as well […]
January 15, 2014
Edited by piano professors Ingrid Jacobson Clarfield and Phyllis Alpert Lehrer, the Classics for the Developing Pianist: Core Repertoire for Study and Performance series presents 100 master works selected for developing pianists. Each book has 20 pieces from the four main periods, as well as additional suggestions for 20th century repertoire. The books are progressively […]
January 15, 2014
This behind-the-scenes look at the job of the conductor provides a step-by-step guide to the basics and nuances of conducting. It contains everything you need to know to lead all types of ensembles. There are suggestions for reading, researching, and marking a score; tips for effective rehearsals; a guide for baton use and proper podium […]
January 15, 2014
You may know Vince Guaraldi’s playful jazz piano themes from early Peanuts television specials. This long overdue book looks at the entire career of Guaraldi, beginning with his early work with Cal Tjader and Woody Herman and his Top 40 Grammy-winning hit “Cast Your Fate to the Wind.” This book explores the talent and legacy […]
January 1, 2014
This unique learning method, will help students recognize the “shapes” of chords and intervals, and to use the logic and patterns to help place fingers on the correct keys. It also covers proper use of pedals, chordal accompaniment, transposition, and tips for selecting a piano or keyboard. Designed for beginning through advanced classical pianists, it […]