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.
BOSS’s new Waza-Air Wireless Personal Guitar Amplification System is a wearable, over-ear sound system for guitarists.
The new Black Swamp Percussion ArchThrow is a smooth, stylish and durable die-cast strainer. It is chrome plated, fits drums five inches deep or larger, and features an indexing knob for smooth, consistent tensioning in small increments.
The Shubb Capo Royale for steel string guitar fits most acoustics and electrics and is designed to reduce tuning problems.
Music: A Subversive History by Ted Gioia tells a 4,000-year history of music as a global source of power, change, and upheaval.
Women at the Piano sheds light on the unheard music and untold story of female composers of the 19th century, offering not only pristine editions of neglected and forgotten musical works, but also insights into the historical context of which these remarkable pieces emerged.
Webster’s arrangement focuses on Schubert’s “Divertissement à l’hongroise, D.818,” a rather lengthy affair that can exceed half an hour to perform.
The book includes practical advice about propelling a story forward, how to support singers, and staying true to the styles discussed.
The Practizma Practice Journal by Susanna Klein, of Local 123 (Richmond, VA), allows users to track their practice, reinvigorate practice, and enjoy the journey of being a musician.
Gruv Gear’s new Keyboard Kapsule is a lightweight travel-ready keyboard case made from a tough polycarbonate / ABS hard shell that is lined with varying density foams for protection and shock absorbency.
Casio has added two new models to its Celviano Grand Hybrid digital piano line: the GP-310 and GP-510. Both feature full-length Austrian spruce piano keys plus a true grand piano hammer mechanism, using the same materials and processes as those in C.