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.
For many, August is synonymous with winding down, stepping away from the daily grind, and taking a well-deserved summer vacation. Many symphonic workplaces enjoy a brief summer hiatus. But for union leadership and player conference delegates and members, summer tells a very different story. While the rest of the world slows its pace, our player […]
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The 103rd Convention has spoken and set the Federation stage for the next three years. I’m looking forward to working with the 2026 iteration of the International Executive Board. As of August 1, Karen Suarez Flint, secretary-treasurer of Local 10-208 (Chicago, IL), will be joining as the Federation’s next international vice president, replacing Dave Pomeroy, […]
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by Dr. Karen Suarez Flint, AFM International Vice President and Local 10-208 (Chicago, IL) Secretary-Treasurer In the weeks leading up to the 103rd AFM Convention, I ran a national campaign with a forward-thinking vision for the AFM based on the belief that when all musicians feel seen, heard, and represented, power is built and transformational […]
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With the 103rd AFM Convention in the rearview mirror, I want to thank those delegates who reached out to express how much they enjoyed having the convention in Canada and gave positive comments about experiencing Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, as a host. Also, thanks to all the Federation staff and officers, as well as Local […]
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Most advanced student and professional bows are made of Pernambuco wood from the threatened Pernambuco tree native to the Atlantic forests in Brazil. The AFM, in collaboration with League of American Orchestras and other organizations, has created a “Know Your Bow” campaign to help bow owners document basic facts about the wood used in their […]
Read MoreArmy veteran and Local 40-543 (Baltimore, MD) member Chuck Cook is running to represent District 33B in the Maryland House of Delegates. After advancing from the June primary, Cook is now focusing his campaign momentum entirely on the November general election. Cook’s platform focuses heavily on labor protection, community service, and robust advocacy for working […]
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