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.
May 23, 2017
IM -Amidst the financial crisis in Brazil, the artists of the Brazilian Symphonic Orchestra and ballet of the Rio de Janeiro Municipal Theater, have not been paid their salaries since February. In May, they took to the streets to protest by giving a free concert in the plaza in front of the Municipal Theater. They handed out fliers denouncing “the complete disorganization, chaos, and financial misery caused by the continuous nonpayment of salaries.” Aside from creating awareness they asked for donations of non-perishable food items for colleagues going through very hard times.
“We’ve come to the point where some artists haven’t enough money to come to work. Many are in debt and are asking for loans to buy food,” says Pedro Olivero, president of the Municipal Theater Employees Union.