What is Community?

The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines community as a group of people living in the same geographic area, or a network of individuals connected by shared interests, values, culture, or background.

Our community of musicians is diverse and farflung. Musicians work in theaters, jazz clubs, recording studios, concert halls, theme parks and festivals. Have I missed any venues? Our Local 47 members live in the LA area as well as across the United States, Canada, and overseas in Europe, Japan and even New Zealand. 

What connects us? Obviously one common denominator is our AFM membership. But what does that mean to you? Are you a member because you have to be in order to work? Are you a member because of a certain cachet in being a part of a union of professionals? Are you a member because you believe that musicians everywhere are uplifted by a stronger AFM? 

What are our core values and mutual interests? 

Our AFM International Mission statement starts with the following:

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.

In the past, Local 47 General Membership meetings frequently bogged down in disputes over the intent and language of bylaws. Rather than moving us forward, this conflict fractured our union and alienated members. 

To improve the atmosphere of our General Membership meetings, a dedicated task force of members was established earlier this year. Their ongoing participation has been greatly appreciated. 

We shifted the dynamic at the October meeting, marking a significant turning point for our local. Instead of dwelling on internal disagreements or procedural tactics, we stood together in solidarity—and the outcome was genuinely inspiring.

Key highlights from the meeting included:

  • Member-led presentations on organizing initiatives for upcoming Sound Recording Labor Agreement (SRLA) negotiations and early preparations for the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) talks next year.
  • Updates from the Bargaining Committee on historic first-contract negotiations for Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (YOLA) Teaching Assistants.
  • A member-created step-and-repeat banner in support of the Human Played Human Paid initiative (www.humanplayedhumanpaid.org).

This meeting proved what is possible when we actively unite as a community. Focusing on our common objectives and celebrating collective progress empowers all of us. Solidarity is more than a slogan—it is essential. We simply cannot afford to let internal fractures divide us.

I couldn’t be prouder of our community that turned out for the October meeting and look forward to seeing many of you at the next General Membership meeting on Monday, January 25, 2027.

Be a part of the change that you want to see with your union!

Support Your Community with the Local 47 Musicians Relief Fund!

With our annual membership dues renewal cycle launching next month, please consider adding a donation to the Relief Fund. While the suggested contribution is $5, larger donations allow us to extend greater support to fellow members experiencing financial hardship. The Relief Fund provides vital assistance for essential expenses, including housing costs, vehicle payments, medical expenses, and utility bills, helping members bridge the gap when needed.

You can support the fund through any of the following convenient methods:

  • By Mail: Checks should be made payable to Local 47 Musicians Relief Fund and sent to:
    • Local 47 Musicians Relief Fund
    • 3220 Winona Ave.
    • Burbank, CA 91504
  • With Membership Dues: Check the “Relief Fund” box on your paper renewal statement and include your contribution with your dues payment. Or include it in your online renewal by adding the amount to the Relief Line.

If you are seeking financial assistance, please visit our website at www.afm47.org/relief to review application guidelines for our Relief Fund and explore additional support organizations available for musicians. 

Wishing you a season filled with gratitude and generosity,

Gail