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.
March 1, 2020
IM -Both the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra announced in early February that they changed course for plans to tour in Asia due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) canceled its entire Asian tour, which was scheduled to include performances in Seoul, Taipei, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. The orchestra replaced the tour with concerts at home in Boston, including a complimentary performance, “Concert for Our City,” at Symphony Hall, as well as community performances at schools, homeless shelters, and hospitals. BSO musicians are represented by Local 9-535 (Boston, MA).
The National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) canceled three concerts in China that were planned for March. The orchestra will carry on plans to tour Japan, giving concerts in five Japanese cities, including Hiroshima, marking 75 years since the end of World War II. NSO musicians are represented by Local 161-710 (Washington, D.C.).
The U.S. Department of State and the Center for Disease Control have issued advisories against travel to China, and most major airlines have canceled flights to China.