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 28, 2025
In a move to lift spirits and bring a bit of joy to those affected by the recent L.A. wildfires, the Music Performance Trust Fund (MPTF), Red Cross of Los Angeles County, and Make Music Alliance co-sponsored a live concert with Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) musicians on the afternoon of February 12 at the Disaster Recovery Center in Pasadena.
The brass quintet, led by Local 47 member Brad Close, was greeted with words of appreciation for their surprise three-hour concert.
“The performance was well received by clients and volunteers alike,” says Timothy Dahlum, Pasadena Complex site manager. “Several people stopped me to ask who the group was and said thank you for bringing them in—two called it an unexpected treat.”
Working in tandem with AFM locals in various cities, MPTF sponsors music in public spaces, allowing the public to enjoy live music, always free of charge.