Job Referrals
The Musicians’ Referral Service connects available musicians with talent buyers in the area (booking agents, fathers-of-the-bride, restaurant/hotel managers, etc.)
It’s easy for Local 7 members to participate in the Musicians’ Referral Service. Bandleaders or solo players simply complete the Group Musical Profile and submit with any promotional materials. That lets us know exactly what musical services you have to offer and your availability. Then when a call comes in, we can provide referrals for the perfect band/soloist for any special event.
Local 7 also has an Instructors database and offers referrals for private teachers to interested parties. For members accepting private students, simply complete the Instructors Profile and return to the office to be added to the database. Rates for private instruction are set by the instructors.
Free Rehearsal / Performance Space
The Local 7 Milton Foster Hall is free and available to all members in good standing. The facility can accommodate a full 80-piece orchestra and is furnished with a studio grand piano, drum set, sound, lighting, podium, stage, music stands, tables and chairs (and a pool table!).
Groups with less than a majority of Union members can use the hall once a month. Bands with over 50% Union members can reserve the hall more than once a month.
Local 7 members may also use the hall to perform a concert for the public. A deposit and liability insurance is required. Call the office for more information.
Collective Bargaining Agreements
Local 7 members negotiate exclusive Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) in several areas, such as Disneyland, Pacific Symphony, Pageant of the Masters Orchestra and other employment. These agreements provide professional wages, improved working conditions and employer-paid pension contributions.
Pension Plan
For all covered jobs, employers make pension contributions on the members’ behalf to the American Federation of Musicians and Employers Pension Fund (AFM-EPF) Single engagements as well as those under collective bargaining agreements can have contributions made to the Fund. Once vested, participants can collect their pension at age 65!
Instrument and Equipment Insurance
AFM members can get “Special Risk” insurance to cover their instruments and equipment at especially low rates. The AFM Equipment Protection Program gives you the coverage you need and has a low deductible of $100 per claim. The Plan pays to replace your covered equipment when it’s lost, damaged or stolen; and if replaced with new equipment, coverage is available up to 10% above the scheduled amount. PLUS, it even covers the cost of renting equipment to help you avoid losing income when you’re waiting for new equipment.
Loans, Discounts, and Scholarships
Union members can enjoy a myriad of benefits from the Union Privilege Program, including mortgage loans, discounts on car rentals and theme parks, etc. They offer special rates for Mastercard credit cards, auto clubs and more.
Health Insurance Plans
Local 7 offers self-pay health insurance plans for medical, dental and vision coverage.
The application process is simple! If your application is received by the 20th of the month, you will have coverage beginning on the first day of the month following the day the application is processed. First monthly premium + one month premium to be held in escrow is required to begin coverage.
Emergency Relief Plan
Funds raised by the Musicians’ Club of OC are also available to Local 7 members in financial need. Applications for assistance are kept confidential and considered on a case-by-case basis.
Guaranteed Wage Plan
Filed contracts are guaranteed scale in the event of the purchaser’s default. This amount would be reimbursed to the Local if subsequently collected legally.
Legal Counsel
The Union Privilege Legal Program offers discounts from participating attorneys regarding personal matters. A labor law attorney is also kept on retainer at the Local for CBA contract disputes.
Newsletter Subscriptions
Included in a Local 7 membership is a free subscription to The Score, the Local’s quarterly publication. In addition to all the official business transpiring at the Local, you’ll also find interesting articles and commentary written by members of the Local. There are also e-newsletter versions that are emailed periodically to the membership when breaking news or events happen.
Every month, AFM members receive the highly respected music industry publication, the International Musician. This newspaper covers the players, the issues and the innovations of the international music scene, as well as Federation news and commentary.
Credit Union
Local 7 members are eligible to join SAG/AFTRA Federal Credit Union! This full-service credit union offers savings, checking, auto and home loans, investments, retirement and estate planning. They provide financial services to everyone in the business of entertainment, at every stage of life.