80,000 musicians comprise the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM). We perform in orchestras, bands, clubs and theaters—both on Broadway and on tour. AFM members also make music for films, television, radio, commercials, and sound recordings. As the largest union of musicians in the world, we have the power to make the music industry work for musicians.

Many AFM members are freelancers—they are not regularly employed by a symphony, a theater production, or in media production. Musicians have been part of the gig economy since before it even had a name. From young bands just starting out to seasoned performers working regularly—all musicians deserve good wages, decent working conditions, healthcare and a secure retirement.

 

Resources For Freelance Musicians

As the largest union of musicians in the world, we have the power to make the music industry work for musicians. Don’t go it alone—join with 80,000 musicians.

AFM Entertainment
List your group on AFM Entertainment where musicians help musicians get paid gigs for private events like weddings.

Fair Trade Music
Building an organization city-by-city raising standards for working musicians through organizing, collective action and inspiration.

Organize!
Get more information about organizing and how a union works for musicians.

 

Why Join?

It’s hard going it alone in today’s gig economy as temporary, contract and freelance workers.

Musicians’ ability to make a living is threatened as never before. Corporate profits continue growing while technological advances transform our work and how we are compensated. We have built strength allowing us to negotiate strong contacts, good wages, decent working conditions, healthcare and a secure retirement.

Join together with AFM musicians to have a voice, build power and earn a decent living. Many of us standing together are more powerful than any of us standing alone.

U.S. Residents  >>   Join Now

Canadian Residents  >>   Join Now (English)

Canadian Residents  >>    Join Now (French)

Price Quote: Contact your local to learn about pricing.

Renew Your Current Membership  >>   Here

 

By joining AFM you are joining the largest union of musicians in the world. Don’t go it alone—join 80,000 musicians throughout the United States and Canada making the music industry work for musicians.

More Information, email: membership@afm.org  or call (800) 762-3444 x243