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.
July 30, 2026
Army veteran and Local 40-543 (Baltimore, MD) member Chuck Cook is running to represent District 33B in the Maryland House of Delegates. After advancing from the June primary, Cook is now focusing his campaign momentum entirely on the November general election.
Cook’s platform focuses heavily on labor protection, community service, and robust advocacy for working families. As an active professional musician and union member, he brings a distinct perspective to state politics. He works to strengthen support for everyday working people and fights to ensure that the arts remain a vital economic and cultural pillar across the state.
Local 40-543 shares enthusiasm for Cook’s political journey, highlighting his readiness to champion the needs of working-class families and creators alike. “We are incredibly proud of Chuck and all that he has accomplished,” said Marta Bradley, Local 40-543 Secretary-Treasurer and AFM International Executive Board member. “His lifelong commitment to serving others and advocating for working people makes him an outstanding candidate, and we look forward to working with him as he helps represent not only the people of Maryland, but also the interests of professional musicians and the arts.”
His campaign carries high-profile endorsements, including support from Maryland Governor Wes Moore, who champions Cook’s bid as a vital effort to bring authentic progress and stronger worker advocacy. For Local 40-543 and the broader labor community, his candidacy represents a crucial opportunity to put a passionate advocate for workers’ rights and the creative economy directly into the legislative halls of Annapolis.