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.
May 15, 2014
IM -The Houston Symphony reached a four-year contract agreement calling for musician salary increases of 2.85% annually, which will bring salaries to $97,240 by the end of the term. The agreement was reached ahead of schedule and goes into effect October 5. The contract will allow for additional concerts and expanded community and education activities.
The orchestra achieved record-setting contributed income and ticket-sale revenue this season, and is on track for a balanced budget this fiscal year. Next season, Houston Symphony’s newly appointed music director, Andrés Orozco-Estrada, begins his five-year contract.
Local 65-699 (Houston, TX) member Dave Kirk, principal tuba and chair of the musician negotiations committee, says, “I, together with my orchestra colleagues, look forward to our work with Andrés, the staff, and board to advance the artistry and reputation of the Houston Symphony here and beyond. We welcome the opportunity to serve our hometown in an even broader way through additional free community programming allowed for in the new agreement.”