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.

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Tag Archives: one tough teacher and the gift of great expectations

Books-Resources, Products

Strings Attached: One Tough Teacher and the Gift of Great Expectations

July 1, 2015 IM

Teacher Jerry Kupchynsky’s sharp-spoken, foot-pounding, never-praising music lessons and orchestra rehearsals reduced many students to tears. Yet, when Mr. K passed away, more than 100 students returned to play a memorial concert for him. Though his lessons were music, he taught three generations of students about resilience, character development, the power of a can-do attitude, and achieving excellence in life by demanding nothing less than excellence from students. Co-written by journalist Joanne Lipman and Chicago Symphony violinist Melanie Kupchynsky, Jerry’s daughter, this book makes you question today’s teaching methods: Is failure ever acceptable? Is self-discipline or support more important? Is praise a tool or a detriment to progress? How and why does music study prepare children for success?

Strings Attached: One Tough Teacher and the Gift of Great Expectations, by Joanne Lipman and Melanie Kupchynsky, www.stringsattachedbook.com.