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.
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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.
January 9, 2014
IM -After more than a year of negotiations, musicians of the Pacific Symphony reached an agreement with management in early October. The previous contract expired in August 2012 and the musicians continued to play and talk throughout the past season.
The four-year agreement is retroactive to August 2012 and lasts through August 2016. Over the life of the contract, musicians will see modest wage increases. After a wage freeze in the previous season and current season, salaries will rise 2% in the 2014-2015 season and there will be two 1.5% increases during the contract’s final year. The contract also includes provisions for more work, such as additional rehearsals for classical concerts and hiring more string players for family concerts.
“This was not an easy negotiation, but when one looks around the country these days, things could have been much more difficult,” says Local 7 (Orange County, CA) President Robert Sanders. “Here, both sides of the table bargained hard, in good faith, and at great length. The good news is that we are now agreed and the musicians have ratified the agreement. This agreement will allow Pacific Symphony to continue making great music for a great community.”
AFM Negotiator Chris Durham stated, “Pacific Symphony President John Forsyte and the board of directors continue to set an exemplary standard of arts management in leading one of the great US orchestras. We thank all of our patrons and fans for their tireless support and dedication to keeping great artistry in the forefront of Southern California.”