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 » Orchestras Offer Virtual Independence Day Performances


Orchestras Offer Virtual Independence Day Performances

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Orchestras across the US helped their communities celebrate the Fourth of July holiday with patriotic, virtual performances. The concerts were all given free of charge, some featuring special guest artists or partner organizations performing with the orchestra musicians. The Cincinnati Pops, for example, was joined by a local folk band and vocalist, while the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s “America Strong” event featured local collaborators from the Fort Worth Opera, the Cliburn, and Texas Ballet Theater, as well as a Broadway baritone. 

Music by wide-ranging American composers rang out across the country—from the Americana classical of Aaron Copland to the film scores of Michael Kamen at the Dallas Symphony Orchestra; from the marches of John Philip Sousa to the rock ’n’ roll of Elton John at The Philadelphia Orchestra; and from the ragtime of Scott Joplin to the blues of William Christopher Handy at the Fort Worth Symphony.  


The Boston Pops Fourth of July performance was broadcast online as well as on television and radio this year. Pictured is the Boston Pops and conductor Keith Lockhart, of Local 9-535 (Boston, MA).

Over Independence Day weekend, the St. Louis Symphony released the final two videos in its six-part video project, featuring performances celebrating diverse voices in American music, filmed in front of St. Louis landmarks and featuring guest artists from the community. The Boston Pops’ Fourth of July performance—broadcast not only online, but also on television and radio—was positioned as a virtual tribute to frontline workers and those who have lost their lives during the pandemic, as well as a celebration of America’s diversity and founding values of liberty and justice for all.







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