AFM - American Federation of Musicians

09/07/2026

This Labor Day, we reflect on the strength, solidarity, and history that define our union. The rights and protections we depend on today—from workplace safety and fair wages to healthcare benefits and retirement security—are the result of generations of working people standing together to demand better. Honoring that legacy inspires our continued work for the future of professional musicians.

Our industry faces unprecedented shifts—from the rise of artificial intelligence and streaming economics to changing workplace landscapes. Today, our solidarity defines our power as we advocate for the freedom, fairness, and security that every worker deserves through a union. This principle drives every contract we negotiate, every campaign we lead, and every action we take so musicians receive the respect and compensation they deserve. Now, more than ever, we must stand united and fight for our collective futures.

Whether you are marching in a Labor Day parade, performing on stage, or spending time with family this weekend, take pride in being a union member and a vital part of the labor movement!

Happy Labor Day!
In solidarity,

Tino Gagliardi
AFM International President

09/03/2026

The American Federation of Musicians is encouraged to see the Trump Administration’s support of a federal film and television tax incentive. We will always support policies that put creative professionals to work. More production in the United States means more job opportunities for our musicians.

At the movies and in our homes, AFM members bring stories to life. The work of AFM film and television scoring musicians is an essential part of the creative economy in this country.

We look forward to working with the Administration and Congress to help make this idea a reality. The AFM fully supports a federal tax incentive that will put artists and arts workers back on the job in the United States.
– Tino Gagliardi, AFM International President

09/03/2026

Support the Cleveland Orchestra Musicians —Visit www.clevelandorchestramusicians.com to leave a testimonial or sign up for news and updates as they fight for a fair contract!

Help secure the future of our orchestra! Visit our website today to leave a testimonial in support of a fair contract.
www.clevelandorchestramusicians.com

The musicians of the Cleveland Orchestra stand united for:

•Safer work rules to help prevent injuries common in our line of work, such as tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome
•A meaningful role in the audition and hiring process
•A compensation package that keeps pace with inflation and our peer orchestras

09/03/2026

In his September IM column, AFM President Tino Gagliardi speaks about SRLA Negotiations, AI, and the importance of union action and member involvement.

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 dolla...

09/03/2026

09/03/2026

Congratulations to the musicians of WEST SIDE STORY which ran August 13th - 30th, 2026 at Music Theater Works in Wilmette, IL!

Conductor - Justin Kono
Violin 1/Concertmaster - Alison Tatum
Violin 2 - Elena Spiegel
Violin 3 - Sam Sharp
Violin 4 - Annika Porter
Violin 5 - Deb Mose
Violin 6 - Eva Nicholson
Cello 1 - Lewis Rawlinson
Cello 2 - Roman Wood
Reed 1 - Cara Strauss
Reed 2 - Abby Atwater
Reed 3 - Lara Regan
Reed 4 - Eva Lewis Butcher
Reed 5 - Edin Agamenoni
Horn - Erika Hollenback
Trombone 1 - Luke Malewicz
Trombone 2 - Stephanie Lebens
Trumpet 1 - Amy Nelson
Trumpet 2 - Greg Strauss
Piano/celeste - Linda Madonia
Guitar - Kyle Paul
Bass - Eric Von Holst
Drums - Vance Okraszewski
Percussion - Tina Laughlin

09/03/2026

Solidarity with the Cleveland Orchestra Musicians as they hold a press conference on the steps of Severance Hall with Cleveland Federation of Musicians, Local 4. The musicians, who have been playing without a contract for the last week of the Blossom Music Center season, will return to negotiations directly after the press conference.

08/27/2026

The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada will never endorse a trade agreement that threatens Canadian sovereignty. The AFM supports the Canadian government’s sensible decision to suspend trade negotiations with the United States.

Ensuring union members can safely and efficiently work across North America remains our top priority. We continue to pursue all available policy options that will benefit Canadian and American musicians alike.

08/26/2026

08/26/2026

The musicians of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) have ratified a new 3-year Collective Bargaining Agreement by a 94% majority. 🎉

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

BSO MUSICIANS RATIFY NEW AGREEMENT

From the Boston Musicians Association:

The Boston Musicians Association is proud to announce that the musicians of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) have ratified a new 3-year Collective Bargaining Agreement by a 94% majority.

Boston Musicians Association President David Rufino:
“This groundbreaking agreement offers unprecedented artistic collaboration through all aspects of the artistic process, which we believe will set a new standard for American Orchestras. The agreement guarantees the musicians a meaningful role engaging collaborators and planning repertoire that ensures artistic excellence. The Players Committee’s tireless efforts, the unwavering support of BSO musicians and patrons, and BSO management’s agreement to try something new, all contributed to this momentous achievement.”

BSO Players Committee Chair Todd Seeber:
"The Players of the BSO are pleased to announce the ratification of a new 3-year contract. With an economic agreement that keeps us competitive with our peer orchestras, it is also an innovative and transformative path forward for American orchestras, involving players as never before in the process of artistic decision making and planning. In addition, the agreement guarantees the musicians a critically enhanced role in the engagement of titled conductors, including the Music Director. With both musicians and management working in earnest, we look forward to presenting the finest in classical music for our devoted audiences."