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.
April 24, 2021
IM -The musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and management of the Chautauqua Institution have agreed to extend the terms of the current musicians’ contract agreement through September 2021, while also making adjustments that allow for more flexibility in crafting the 2021 season.
Five weeks of performances will take place during Chautauqua’s renowned summer season. Performances will feature smaller ensembles with social distancing; all musicians, except for wind and brass players, will be masked; and appearances by guest soloists will be limited.
CSO trumpet player Leslie Linn of Local 134 (Jamestown, NY) served as chair of the musicians’ negotiations committee. “As we prepare for the upcoming season at Chautauqua, we are grateful to have an opportunity to be back together, in person, to perform for the Chautauqua community, filling the void that has existed for all of us since in-person performing ceased due to the pandemic,” says Linn. “The musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra are excited to have this agreement in place. We thank the institution for working with us over many months to reach this agreement and are eager to return to Chautauqua and the audience we love.”