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.

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Home » Orchestra News » Orchestra London Musicians Perform Amid Shut-Down


Orchestra London Musicians Perform Amid Shut-Down

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Orchestra London in Ontario has ceased operations for at least the remainder of the 2014-2015 season, yet musicians are working closely with the board of directors to find a way to keep the organization running. The dedicated musicians have performed more than 20 free pop-up concerts, family concerts, church performances, and more, to show commitment to their orchestra and their community.

Orchestra London amassed a large deficit after the second installment of a $1 million pledge did not come through last summer. The anonymous donor stated that they would instead give their money toward a new concert hall. In December, Orchestra London announced that it no longer had the resources to continue to operate. The orchestra’s musicians and unionized stagehands have denounced Executive Director Joe Swan’s leadership and called for his resignation.

The Organization of Canadian Symphony Musicians (OCSM) has issued a Call to Action for support of Orchestra London’s musicians. Checks may be made out to Orchestra London Players Association (OLPA) and mailed to: 16 Bloomfield Drive, London, ON, N6G 1P3, Canada.







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