AFM musicians perform in symphony, opera and ballet orchestras throughout the United States and Canada. By joining together, symphonic musicians have collectively negotiated strong contracts with benefits including pensions, healthcare, job security and better wages—including vacation, sick leave, personal time off, and seniority pay.

Most professional symphonic musicians in North America —whether in large urban centers, smaller cities or suburban areas— perform under an AFM contract. AFM musicians—in symphonies as throughout the union—play an important role in their contract negotiations. Orchestra members elect their colleagues to serve on union negotiating committees. This democratic process allows musicians a voice at the negotiating table.  Whether performing time-honored masterpieces or recently composed new works, symphonic musicians working under AFM agreements have the added assurance they will be treated professionally with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Symphonic Resource Center (for Members)

Symphonic Wage Charts (for Members)