1950-1959
In association with other arts groups, the union lobbied for the establishment of a US government department dedicated to conserving the heritage and elevating the position of the arts in America. The Canadian Parliament established a council for the arts in 1957.
1951 - The Lester Petrillo Fund for Disabled Musicians was created by President James Petrillo in memory of his late son.
1952 - The union increased its representation of musicians in the motion picture industry by obtaining its first collective bargaining agreement with independent motion picture producers.
1955 - The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations merged to create the AFL-CIO.
1957 - The Canadian Parliament established the Canada Council which helped to raise achievement in Canadian music to new heights.
1958 - Herman Kenin was elected AFM President and served until 1970.
1959 - Through negotiations with the record industry, the first AFM pension (AFM Employers Pension Welfare Fund) was established.
