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.
June 9, 2014
IM -Musicians of the Phoenix Symphony have ratified a one-year agreement, six months ahead of the expiration of their current contract. The new agreement goes into effect September 15, 2014 and will cover the period through October 31, 2015.
This is the fourth consecutive one-year agreement; the first included a wage freeze and the following three have included salary increases. Since 2011-2012, salaries have increased 14% in total. Musicians report that they enjoy a healthy and straightforward relationship with the orchestra’s board and management.
The negotiating committee for this contract included Local 586 members Peter Lorenzo Anderegg, Chuck Berginc, Alex Laing, and Chris Wolf. Negotiations were assisted by Local 586 President Nathan Mitchell, Secretary-Treasurer Doug Robinson, and Attorney Susan Martin.