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.
February 1, 2016
IM -Just two years after the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) implemented an emergency $5 million fundraising campaign to stay afloat, the orchestra announced in December that it achieved a balanced budget, with a small surplus of $41,000, for its most recent fiscal year. MSO ticket revenue increased by $340,000 last season.
MSO has also extended the musicians’ contract through August 2016, an agreement that was reached amicably due in part to the fact that MSO musicians are involved in the orchestra’s financial committees, fostering a sense of transparency and collaboration.
At the same time, Mark Niehaus, the orchestra’s president, signed a six-year contract extension. MSO in undergoing a music director search to replace Edo de Waart, who is planning his departure after the 2016-2017 season.