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.
September 21, 2015
IM -The Future of Music Policy Summit is a two-day annual event in Washington DC that brings together musicians and composers, managers and artist advocates, labels, publishers and music societies, tech innovators, legal experts and policymakers to discuss the most pressing issues facing the music business, all centered on the needs of musicians themselves.
Hosted by Future of Music Coalition and Georgetown University, this year’s event takes place on October 26-27.
As FMC’s Communications & Outreach Manager Kevin Erickson explains, “There are so many musicians who want to get involved in working for fairness and transparency, but it can seem daunting. Our event breaks down these complicated debates and makes them accessible to all; whether you’re an industry veteran or a young musician at the earliest stages of your career, there’s a lot you can learn.”
Topics this year will include: debates over how streaming royalties are calculated, the role of data and discovery, new developments in arts education, time management tips for busy musicians, artist organizing strategy, transparency for songwriters and composers, new technological tools, an overview of music cities and local policies in a global context, and much more.
After each day of dynamic discussion, there will be evening events for networking and fun, including concerts, cocktails, and a listening party hosted by NPR’s All Songs Considered.
To ensure that musicians get to be active participants in the debates about the issues that impact their lives and livelihoods, a limited number of musician scholarships are available at a sliding scale price beginning at just $25.
Full speaker lineup, schedule, and registration information is available at summit.futureofmusic.org