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.
November 15, 2016
IM -Noted Canadian musician Doug Edwards passed away in early November. Edwards, a 50-year member of Local 145 (Vancouver, BC), began his career touring with The 5th Dimension shortly after finishing high school, appearing on The Ed Sullivan Show and opening for Frank Sinatra. He may be best known as a member of the band Skylark, and co-writer of the band’s song “Wildflower” (1970), which was a gold record in Canada and made it to number nine on the US Billboard chart. Over the years, it has been covered by more than 75 artists.
Edwards was a session musician for six decades and performed or recorded with numerous well-known artists. For the past two decades he performed with the rock band Chilliwack.