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.

Find Out More Find Your Local

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AFM

Tag Archives: Projects

International Musician, Recent News

MTT to Step Down as San Francisco Symphony MD

November 9, 2017 IM

San Francisco Symphony Music Director and Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas announced he will step down as music director at the end of the 2019-2020 season. Thomas, who has been credited with propelling the symphony to international recognition, will celebrate his 25th season at the helm and his 75th birthday in December 2019.

As a member of Locals 9-535 (Boston, MA) and 47 (Los Angeles, CA), Thomas has promised to continue in the post of music director laureate, conducting at least four weeks per year and working on special programming projects. He is credited with altering San Francisco Symphony’s performance style, while expanding repertoire to include emphasis on American and contemporary composers, as well as theatrical music. He also promoted music education and outreach, including his multimedia project Keeping Score.