The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) wrapped up its 103rd International Convention today. Under the theme “Two Countries, One Union,” the 103rd Convention took place in Ottawa, Canada, from June 20–23. Delegates from across the US and Canada gathered to strengthen cross-border solidarity, vote on the union’s future, and […]
Thank you, Congresswoman Ross, for this commonsense approach to fixing a fundamentally broken system. The Protect Working Musicians Act is an essential part of any meaningful attempt to regulate streaming and machine learning. Multinational corporations must not be allowed to use antitrust law to seek refuge from the collective voice of independent artists. When working musicians […]
The AFM issued the following statement regarding Kennedy Center management’s decision to terminate IATSE members: “AFM and IATSE always stand together. We must never tolerate violations of our contracts. The members of Locals 868 and B-868 are an essential part of the Kennedy Center. These workers bring communities together. The AFM joins IATSE in calling […]
The International Executive Board of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) has recognized the Freelance Musicians Association (FMA) as an official AFM player conference which entitles it to representation at the 103rd AFM Convention in June. “I am excited to announce the board’s unanimous decision to grant player conference […]
To Whom It May Concern: The undersigned, including the leadership of the American Federation of Musicians, stands in full support of the musicians of the Boston Symphony Orchestra during the transition at the organization following the departure of music director Andris Nelsons, a decision made without consulting the musicians in the orchestra. The musicians of […]
The AFM is calling on the public and all members of the creative community to rally with them in Times Square on Wednesday, March 11, to demonstrate a “unified front” as the union continues its negotiations with the major record labels. This rally serves as a powerful reminder that human creativity is the engine of […]
In this free 90-minute webinar featuring speakers from the US Fish and Wildlife Service, musical instrument owners, dealers, and makers can learn about the new rules and steps for legal compliance, and hear from music sector leaders about actions to identify the wood material in bows and support a sustainable future for the species. Webinar: […]
AFM International President Tino Gagliardi issued the following statement regarding the escalating violence and federal enforcement actions in Minneapolis: The American Federation of Musicians of the US & Canada is outraged and heartbroken by the senseless violence and growing atmosphere of fear gripping the city of Minneapolis. Our hearts go out to the families of […]
Today, we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, a visionary who always reminded us that racial justice and labor rights are inseparable. As musicians, we know that our strength lies in our harmony and our collective voice. Dr. King famously warned that “right to work” laws were a scam designed to destroy […]
I am pleased to advise you of the 2026 AFM Diversity Awards Program, which will be presented at the 103rd AFM Convention. The three Diversity Awards for 2026 are: the President’s Local Award, the Charles McDaniel Youth Award, and the Charles Walton Diversity Advocate Award. Please click the link below to access the award applications: The President’s […]