Sadly, another instrument has been destroyed by the airlines. Florida State University student Carrie Miller’s cello was smashed during a United Airlines flight from California and Tallahassee, while returning from Christmas break. On previous trips, Miller had been allowed to gate check the cello, but this time she was told she would have to go through the regular checked baggage process. She did not have the option of purchasing an extra seat as the flight was completely full. Miller says she does not have the money to replace her cello, but has set up a Go Fund Me page [https://www.gofundme.com/carrie-millers-cello] in hopes of raising enough to purchase a cello before her final graduate performance in April.
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.