Legal Definitions - American Federation of Musicians

The American Federation of Musicians (AF of M) is a labor union that represents musicians, orchestra leaders, contractors, copyists, orchestrators, composers, and arrangers. The union ensures that its members are paid fairly and according to the union's set scale.

For example, in the recording industry, artists who are hired by record companies that have agreements with the union must be paid according to the union's set scale. This means that musicians are guaranteed a fair wage for their work, and that record companies cannot take advantage of them by paying them less than they deserve.

The AF of M is an important organization for musicians, as it helps to protect their rights and ensure that they are treated fairly in the music industry.