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.
September 18, 2015
Most artists should take advantage of central withholding agreements (CWA) with the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to reduce this withholding amount.
September 15, 2015
Eating well on the road is important for anyone traveling, but especially musicians who are under tremendous mental and physical stress…
August 31, 2015
When you are negotiating to perform in another country, there are certain considerations that need to be taken into account. There may be language problems, or cultural differences.
August 22, 2015
We regret to inform Canadian travelling musicians that USCIS, primarily the Vermont Service Center, is severely backlogged. Please note that USCIS does not notify petitioners
August 17, 2015
Some very simple but important travel advice for any musicians out there who are traveling with their most precious cargo–their instrument.
July 24, 2015
Even a minor criminal conviction can cause you to be turned away from a border crossing. Many musicians are surprised to find out that their criminal record prevents them from traveling overseas for work. I received this letter from a reader:
May 28, 2015
Ignoring the taxation requirements of a foreign country can lead to unforeseen complications, as this letter illustrates:
May 1, 2015
by Robert Baird, President Baird Artists Management (BAM!) The issue of United States Taxation for foreign artists came up in a recent letter: I have a band that is looking to play a corporate event in the US at the end of June. My accountant just informed me of the Central Withholding Agreement that could […]
March 25, 2015
Thanks for all the e-mails about the memorable, out-of-the-ordinary, and crazy gigs. Many of these events become learning experiences for the musicians involved.
March 25, 2015
Revenue Canada and the IRS require tax numbers, both from individuals and businesses, for a variety of reasons, make sure you know all of them.