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.
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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.
October 1, 2024
IM -Delirium Street Party Brass
Limited Pressing Recording
This ensemble from Local 547 (Calgary, AB) delivers a fresh take on the increasingly popular brass band genre. Anchored by the low bass line from the sousaphone, Delirium Street Party Brass blends elements from world street brass and percussion traditions—especially New Orleans—but in a live pop format. Musicians hail from all genres, and since 2011, the group has built a reputation as one of the premiere brass bands in Canada.
When venues closed during the pandemic, the “street band” made a shift. It was a chance to help out-of-work AFM musicians, says bandleader and trombonist John Abraham. “And we knew that outdoor music would be the first type of music to recover, so we saw an opportunity to help each other, while rebooting the band.”
On the Alberta Sessions, the band celebrates strong female vocals. Featured are six iconic songs composed by women from Alberta, whom Abraham says are some of the most pioneering and influential in Canada. The lead track, “Hideaway,” written by Calgary’s hometown hero, singer-songwriter Kiesza, fit into a horn and percussion-driven groove. Sousaphone player Jeremy Coates developed an arrangement that includes a drum break from members of the renowned Calgary Stampede Showband.
“We want Calgary and Alberta to be internationally recognized for our rich music culture,” Abraham says, adding, “when tourists come to Banff National Park to see the stunning natural sights, we want them to spend a few extra days here specifically to see live music.”