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.
October 12, 2017
IM -The University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music has announced that it will award Honorary Doctor of Music degrees to legendary musicians Steve Gadd and Chick Corea, both members of Local 802 (New York City). During the past year, the two musicians have toured together. They will receive the honors during their scheduled October 13 appearance at Eastman Theatre’s Kodak Hall.
One of the most widely recorded drummers of all time Gadd is a Rochester native who has worked with many of the world’s great jazz and rock artists, from Local 802 member James Taylor to Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) member Lee Ritenour. His creative drum work can be heard on such hits as Local 802 member Paul Simon’s “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” and Steely Dan’s “Aja.”
A pioneer of jazz-fusion, Corea’s career has spanned Latin jazz, avant-garde, rock, funk, and classical, having composed several classical works. He’s received 22 Grammy Awards (63 nominations), the BBC Lifetime Achievement Award, and National Endowment for the Arts’ Jazz Masters Award.