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, 2020
IM -The musicians of the San Antonio Symphony, members of Local 23 (San Antonio, TX), have ratified a one-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that runs from September 1, 2020 through August 31, 2021, within an existing agreement that continues through August 31, 2022.
Though the MOA results in an approximately 80% reduction in yearly salary for the 2020-21 season, it is still a significant achievement in light of management’s initial draconian proposals concerning roster and healthcare reductions.
The negotiating committee was ultimately successful in retaining the full complement of musicians, healthcare coverage, and most elements of the current contract.