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.
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 […]
RODE Microphones’ smartLav lavalier mic provides convenient, crisp, high-quality audio, directly into a smartphone or tablet. It is equipped with an omnidirectional condenser microphone to pick up sound from all directions and its foam pop filter eliminates vocal plosives. Although designed for the RODE Rec app for Apple iOS devices, any app that accepts input […]
The Fender Vaporizer tube amp looks like it was teleported here from the ’50s. Featuring two 10-inch, 16-ohm, special design Vaporizer speakers, two inputs, and a quarter-inch speaker output, it stands a tidy 17 inches tall. It has stripped down controls, a built-in reverb, and a retro-styled, single-channel, 12-watt amplifier. The “Space Race” looking chassis […]
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 […]
Based on the Crying Tone wah circuit, the Electro-Harmonix Crying Bass pedal features a specially tuned resonance to enhance the wah effect over the entire harmonic spectrum of the bass guitar. It’s equally adept at adding funky filtering to a deep bass groove and pushing heavy harmonics for solos. In keeping with its bass-centric design, […]
The Roland VT12 Vocal Trainer will go with you in your pocket and on the road so you can warm up and exercise your voice any time. It has built-in exercises and warm-ups to improve your vocal skills. An illuminated pitch meter displays your pitch, and can even detect two singers simultaneously for two-part harmony training. It […]