Double Times
AFM Convention This Month
The biannual AFM Convention takes place this June in Las Vegas. Every other year Federation officers and officers from all of the Locals of the AFM get together to decide the direction the AFM will take for the next two years. There are several issues that will be addressed this year that effect symphonic musicians.
One of the biggest is a proposed dues increase. There are several proposals containing combinations of per capita (annual dues) and work dues increases. Also on the table are proposals relating to the Orchestra Services Program (an alternative for orchestras who are not being adequately represented by their Locals), and for players conferences such as ICSOM and ROPA selecting their own representatives for AFM functions that they are involved in. One of the biggest issues of concern to us is a proposal regarding AFM advisory letters for INS visa applicants. This proposal, put forth by John Grimes of the Boston Local, is particularly directed at Teatro Lirico d'Europa, which happens to be the organization that brings self-contained touring productions to perform for Gold Coast Opera, an organization that used to hire local performers. The proposal would mandate that the AFM share information with Locals about what advisory letters have been written and where those individuals or groups will be performing. The proposal would also have the AFM share fees collected from advisory letters with the effected Locals. The Executive Board has reviewed all of the recommendations and resolutions and we will support the proposals that we think are in your best interests. We'll report back next month on what happens. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns, please let us know!
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