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.
August 31, 2020
IM -Musicians of the Kansas City Symphony recently ratified a one-year agreement modifying the 2020-21 season. Musicians will take a 19% pay cut for the 2020-21 season—part of the organization’s goal to trim expenses overall by 25%. A hiring freeze will leave vacant positions unfilled.
When the orchestra again begins holding ticketed performances at its concert hall, salaries are planned to rise to 8% below the normal rate. For indoor programs, the orchestra is considering scheduling additional performances in order to keep audience sizes smaller and allow for social distancing; some concerts will also be available to watch virtually. In the meantime, the symphony plans to hold outdoor chamber music performances in parks and neighborhoods. The Kansas City Symphony succeeded in ending the 2020-21 season with only a small deficit, due to generous ticket donations and other contributions.
The orchestra’s musicians are members of Local 34-627 (Kansas City, MO).