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.
December 1, 2020
IM -In mid-October, musicians of The Philadelphia Orchestra, represented by Local 77 (Philadelphia, PA), agreed to continue pay cuts for another year. In April, musicians agreed to a 20% reduction from normal salary.
Retroactive to September 12 and in effect through March 15, 2021, that pay cut has deepened—with musicians now receiving 75% of their salary. From March 15 through September 12, 2021, pay could increase or decrease within a range of 60-80% of normal pay, depending on the orchestra’s financial condition. A previously planned pay raise for this year will not happen; calculations are based on 2019-20 pay rates.
The orchestra’s budget has decreased from $51 million last season to $37 million for the current season. A chamber-sized version of the orchestra has been recording concerts, which are being streamed for $15 each.