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 30, 2017
For the growing number of music professionals without basic medical coverage—and with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in flux—MusiCares is a much-needed resource, which works closely with a dedicated group of health care professionals through its medical network.
May 24, 2017
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported more than 4,200 cases of Zika, nearly all carried by travelers from other areas. But Florida reports more than 200 locally acquired cases, spread by the mosquitoes.
April 24, 2017
During allergy season many people experience dry eyes. With age, it becomes more common and can be chronic.
March 1, 2017
It is becoming more common for businesses to be affected by malware and ransomware, and musicians are not immune. Recently, several orchestras have experienced data breaches of employee databases.
March 1, 2017
Playing any instrument means moving a lot. Proper Playing Position Is Key to Comfort and Injury Prevention in Strings
February 14, 2017
People often refer to any hand and wrist ailment as carpal tunnel syndrome, but ulnar tunnel syndrome (also called cubital tunnel syndrome) affects a specific part of the hand. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fifth digit (pinky finger) and half of the ring finger.
January 1, 2017
Trigger Points, or knots, in the neck and shoulder muscles from repetitive use are common in musicians. In addition, chronic muscle-related pain of the head and neck may be exacerbated, or caused, by other conditions
December 1, 2016
Repetitive use injuries, particularly in the hands, are common for instrumentalists. Hand pain can be a result of many different ailments and musicians seeking treatment should be cautious.
October 31, 2016
Did you know that an unexpected trip to the hospital could cost you and your family more than $2,00
October 28, 2016
In North America, millions of people are sickened, hundreds of thousands are hospitalized, and more than 100 million workdays are lost, due to the flu each year. It’s important to take every precaution to not have to cancel gigs. Don’t risk sidelining your career due to illness.