The American Federation of Musicians (AFM) recently announced its new in-house Booking Agency. In addition, the AFM offers opportunity for members to sell their recordings via the AFM Marketplace. Visit www.afm.org for specific information on both these new offerings.
Allentown to be Site of 2014 Association of Concert Bands Convention
We are pleased to report that the Association of Concert Bands (ACB) board of directors voted to hold the 2014 convention in Allentown, also known as "Band City, USA." Check back for updates as convention details unfold.
Why Belong to the AFM?
Professional pride
AFM and local websites, access to on-line forms, contracts & links to music-related sites
Member directories
Booking and referral programs
AFM Employers' Pension Fund
Music Performance Fund
Collection and distribution of "new use" money
Partnership with Sound Exchange
Assistance with recording and broadcasting agreements
Negotiation and administration of Collective Bargaining Agreements
Equipment and liability insurance
International Musician and local newsletter
AFL-CIO Affiliation
Access to Union Privilege programs
Access to health and disability insurance
Legislative representation in Washington, DC
Access to credit cards with preferred rates
Discounts on computers, cell phones, cars and musical instruments
Organizing assistance
Historical Perspective: the American Federation of Musicians
While musicians know the many benefits of AFM membership, conversation rarely includes the origin of the “musicians union.” Here is a brief historical perspective on the organization.
- In the mid 1800s musicians in the United States began exploring ways to improve their professional lives.
- They formed Mutual Aid Societies to provide members with loans, financial assistance during illness or extended unemployment and death benefits. A number of these organizations became early unions serving various constituencies.
- In 1896, delegates from these organizations gathered at the invitation of AFL President Samuel Gompers to organize and charter a musicians’ trade union.
- A majority of the delegates voted to form the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) representing 3,000 musicians nationally. They resolved, “That any musician who receives pay for his musical services shall be considered a professional musician.”
- Within its first ten years, the AFM expanded to serve both the U.S. and Canada, organized 424 locals, and represented 45,000 musicians throughout North America.
Source: AFM publication “Interactive Officers Workshop 2009”
