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.
December 1, 2015
IM -Having performed without a contract since the end of July, Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra (FWSO) musicians continue to negotiate for a fair agreement.
Some progress was made during two days of talks in early November, but the musicians are still facing cuts of almost 9%. We are currently awaiting management’s response to their latest proposal; negotiations were scheduled to resume in mid-November.
The musicians’ 2010 contract cut pay by 13.5%, with only a 3.5% restoration over several years beginning in 2012.
The organization alleges six-figure deficits in recent years and a $5 million drop in its endowment funds. Musicians are calling on management to outline a comprehensive fundraising plan that will grow the orchestra on pace with the growth of its city.
Orchestra musicians spoke to audience members from the stage before beginning a concert, performed a flash mob in early November, and have been active on social media with the hashtag #growthnotcuts, in order to get their message out to their community and fellow musicians.
Read more about what these musicians are doing to bring attention to their cause in AFM President Ray Hair’s December column on page two.