Workers formed unions so they could have some say over wages, hours, working conditions, and the many other problems that arise in the relationship between a worker and employer. Unions are vital because they help set standard for education, skill levels, wages, working conditions, and quality of life for workers. The negotiated wages and benefits for unionized workers are generally superior to those non-union workers receive.

Most union contracts provide far more protections than state and federal laws. For example, in many states, workers have no legal right to take a break. More importantly, most states follow a legal doctrine called “employment-at-will.” At-will means that an employer can terminate an employee at any time for any reason, except an illegal one, or no reason, without incurring legal liability.

Unions also work to establish laws improving job conditions for their members through legislation at the national, state, and local level. The 8-hour workday is an example of a positive change won by unions that benefits all workers.

We live in a time and place where our art form and labor are continually devalued. We can only have a voice to demand what is right for our profession through solidarity and working together to create change. We also need higher wages and protections in how we are treated on the job. Joining The American Federation of Musicians is a great way to secure that legacy and help improve working conditions for ourselves and the generations of musicians who come after us.

Dues are $110 annually, and may be paid quarterly if needed. To see more details and fill out an application, click the “Join” link in the menu at the top of the page.

If you are a brand new member of the AFM, you will need to pay a one-time Federal Initiation Fee of $65 and a one-time Local Initiation Fee of $20 in addition to membership dues. If you are a current member of the AFM in another Local, you do not need to pay the Federal Initiation Fee. If you and your band are joining as one entity, the one-time Federal Initation Fee and one-time Local Initiation Fees are waived, and it’s only $85 for each additional ensemble member.

• Social media outreach
• Email lists of musicians based on region
• Expanding contacts and support west to the Triad and south/east to Goldsboro, Elizabeth City, Fayetteville, and Wilmington
• Touring NC college and university music programs to educate students about unionizing and Local 500
• Keeping wage scales in pace with inflation and housing costs
• Updating bylaws policy to ensure a fair and equitable organization for all members
• Advocating for better working conditions
• Pension/retirement
• Disability benefits
• Health insurance options

No. If you wish to join another Local, you must either be “Active” or “Resigned in Good Standing” in all Locals with whom you currently have membership. If you know your dues are up-to-date, simply send us a message stating you wish to resign in good standing effective your last paid thru date. As long as you are not in arrears, you’ll receive a confirmation that you are now “Resigned in Good Standing,” and you will then be able to join any other AFM Local.

You can find this information on the “Your Profile” page under the “Members” entry in the website menu.