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 29, 2020
IM -‡‡ Please remember that each local must provide to the International President’s Office a copy of any side letter, memorandum of understanding, or other agreement (including any special agreements dealing with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic) between a symphonic employer and an AFM local. Email completed, signed agreements to lhofmann@afm.org.
‡‡ If your local wishes to have the assistance of an SSD negotiator in bargaining a symphonic agreement to deal with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit the SSD Resource Center on the AFM website and use the online form to request negotiator assistance or email SSD Director Rochelle Skolnick at rskolnick@afm.org.
‡‡ The “Coronavirus Resources” folder of the SSD Resource Center has many documents that are helpful to symphonic musicians, orchestra committees, and AFM locals during this period and will be updated periodically as more guidance becomes available.