Empowering Musicians Across Montana and Norhtern Wyoming

African-American man in suit passionately playing electric guitar on stage, highlighting musical expression.

Who We Are: An Overview of the AFM

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The largest union of musicians in the world.

The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) is an AFL-CIO affiliated labor union representing 70,000 professional musicians in the United States and Canada. The AFM, which has its headquarters in New York City, is led currently by President Tino Gagliardi. Founded in 1896, the AFM is the largest organization in the world representing professional instrumental musicians playing in orchestras, bands, clubs, and theater—both on Broadway and on tour. AFM members make music for film, television, commercials, and sound recordings. The AFM negotiates fair agreements, protects ownership of recorded music, secures benefits such as health care and pension, and lobbies for musicians and the rights of workers.

Since its inception more than 129 years ago, the AFM has had one goal: to elevate, protect, and advance the interests of all musicians who receive payment for their musical services. While technology and the music industry have evolved, the AFM’s mission has remained constant. It continues to focus on safeguarding musicians’ rights in the face of artificial intelligence and declining revenue from recording and streaming services. Along the way, there have been many challenges and even some setbacks, but the AFM has been unwavering in its dedication to working musicians everywhere.

As the largest union of musicians in the world, we have the power to make the music industry work for musicians.

Discover Local 709

Local 709 provides vital benefits for members, including access to performance opportunities and legal support, enhancing their professional journey and community engagements.

Our Mission: Empowering Musicians Together

We are the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada, professional musicians united through our Locals so that:
* We can live and work in dignity;
* Our work will be fulfilling and compensated fairly;
* We will have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect us;
* We will have the opportunity to develop our talents and skills;
* Our collective voice and power will be realized in a democratic and progressive union;
* We can oppose the forces of exploitation through our union solidarity.

To achieve these objectives, we must commit to:

* Treating each other with respect and dignity without regard to ethnicity, creed, sex, age, disability, citizenship, sexual orientation, marital status, family status, or national origin;
* Honoring the standards and expectations we collectively set for ourselves in pursuit of that vision, supporting and following the Bylaws that we adopt for ourselves;
* Actively participating in the democratic institutions of our union.

With that unity and resolve, we must engage in direct action that demonstrates our power and determination to:

* Organize unorganized musicians, extending to them the gains of unionism while securing control over our industry sectors and labor markets;
* Bargain contracts and otherwise exercise collective power to improve wages and working conditions, expand the role of musicians in work place decision-making, and build a stronger union;
* Build political power to ensure that musicians’ voices are heard at every level of government to create economic opportunity and foster social justice;
* Provide meaningful paths for member involvement and participation in strong, democratic unions;
* Develop highly trained and motivated leaders at every level of the union who reflect the membership in all its diversity;
* Build coalitions and act in solidarity with other organizations who share our concern for social and economic justice.

Officers and Board of Local 709

Vacant, President
Vacant, VP
James S. Johnson, Secretary/Treasurer

Executive Board (3 positions)
Vacant
Vacant
Vacant

By the virtue of office, in accordance with Local 709 Bylaws, the S/T is the first delegate to the AFM Convention and the Western Conference. The President is the second delegate. Alternate delegates may be elected in the event neither officer is able to attend.

Nominations for all officers and alternate delegates to conventions and conferences of the AFM shall be received annually at the regular membership meeting in October, with the time and place to be determined by the Executive Board.

Our Journey: A Commitment to Musicians

Chartered in 1917, Local 709 has a rich history of advocating for musicians’ rights within Montana and Northern Wyoming, connecting professionals with essential resources and support.

Picture taken during a ResKP tour // www.reskp.fr

YOUR turn to help build A Legacy of Advocacy and Support for Local Musicians

Over the years, Local 709 has worked tirelessly to improve the livelihood of musicians by negotiating contracts, providing performance opportunities, and ensuring safe working conditions. But we can’t do it alone—your involvement is crucial in shaping a brighter future for all musicians in Montana. Join us in our mission to advocate for fair treatment and sustainable careers. Together, we have the power to chart a course not just for ourselves but for our fellow musicians as well. Let’s unite our voices and efforts to create an equitable music industry where everyone thrives.