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.
March 1, 2026
In A Peaceful Basilica At Christmastime: Quiet Organ Music For Prayer And Meditation
Joint Venture Agreement
This is the third recording of William Picher’s performances on the famous 5,200-pipe Schoenstein pipe organ—newly installed in 2019—at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe in Orlando, Florida.
The album features classical mainstays Bach and Tchaikovsky, but Picher includes American composers Richard Purvis (“Les Petites Cloches”) and a Charles Callahan arrangement (“Eat this Bread”), and “Dreaming,” by Rosa Rio, as well as fresh arrangements of traditional Christmas carols.
The music is meant to be enjoyed as a congregation, Picher says. “But it’s a fitting background for your own prayer and meditation.”
Picher, an associate of the American Guild of Organists (AAGO), is in his 25th year as music director and organist of the Basilica. He is also a trumpet player and member of Local 389 (Orlando, FL).
The CD includes unlimited streaming of In a Peaceful Basilica at Christmastime via Bandcamp, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC.