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.
February 1, 2019
IM -Both the Minnesota Orchestra and St. Paul Chamber Orchestra have announced balanced budgets for their 2017-2018 fiscal years. Musicians from both orchestras are represented by Local 30-73 (Minneapolis-St Paul, MN).
In Minneapolis, Minnesota Orchestra ended the fiscal year in the black, with its budget of $36.7 million. The orchestra drew audiences averaging 91% of concert hall capacity and enjoyed a successful fundraising year as well, adding 1,000 new donors to its ranks. Artistic highlights included domestic tours and tours abroad to London and South Africa, as well as a Grammy Award nomination.
St. Paul Chamber Orchestra balanced its $10.2 million budget. With a focus on attracting younger audiences, the orchestra saw 10% more school-age concertgoers at its performances, attributed to a continuing policy of providing free student tickets. A record number of unique households attended St. Paul Chamber Orchestra concerts. Donations from individuals also reached an all-time high. In February 2018, the orchestra won a Grammy Award for its recording of Death and the Maiden.