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.
October 1, 2018
IM -At the end of August, musicians and management of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) announced a five-year CBA that began September 1. This is the first time in more than 30 years that an OSM musicians’ contract has been negotiated and signed before the expiration of the previous one.
OSM musicians, members of Local 406 (Montreal, PQ), will see annual salaries increase 10% over the five years, along with greater pension benefits. The agreement allows flexibility that will facilitate cost control, while also protecting and improving the working conditions of musicians.
“This agreement is the result of a spirit of collaboration between OSM management, its musicians, and their union,” says Luc Fortin, president of Local 406. “In the current context, it is important to work together toward long-term and realistic solutions that will ensure the sustainability of the jobs of our members, while maintaining working conditions befitting of an orchestra of international reputation.”