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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Academy Honors AFM Musicians

August 11, 2016 IM

JoAnn Falletta of Local 125 (Norfolk, VA), music director of the Buffalo Philharmonic and the Virginia Symphony, and legendary saxophonist Wayne Shorter will be inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in October.

A recipient of many of the world’s top conducting awards, Falletta’s recordings have also garnered two Grammy awards and multiple Grammy nominations. She is frequently invited to guest conduct nationally and abroad, with performances in Montreal, Spain, and Finland, as well as recordings with the Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra and the London Symphony.

Jazz saxophonist Shorter of Local 802 (New York) is equally known for his talent as a composer, with many of his pieces are considered jazz standards. He has played with every major jazz artist and maestro, most notably Miles Davis (along with Local 802 members Herbie Hancock and Ron Carter, and Tony Williams) in the classic Second Great Quintet. In the 1970s, he cofounded the influential jazz fusion band, Weather Report.