Abq Musicians Association

The Musicians Association of Albuquerque Local 618 has been serving New Mexico area musicians since 1915. As a local chapter of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada, we have been dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of professional musicians for over 110 years.

Our History

Local 618 was originally founded as The Musicians' Protective Union on July 23, 1915. Over the years, we have continued to grow and evolve to meet the changing needs of our members. In 2021, we merged with Local 466 from El Paso, further expanding our membership and expertise.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide a united and collective voice for professional musicians in the New Mexico area. We strive to promote the interests and welfare of our members, advocating for fair pay, benefits, and working conditions. We achieve this through a variety of means, including contract negotiations, legal support, and education.

Our Services

We offer a range of services to our members, including:

Local and Federation Sponsored Booking/Referral Services

Local 618 assists potential live music purchasers in the New Mexico area to find the right artist or group for their event. Additionally, the AFM provides an international online referral service, one of the largest Internet resources of its kind.

Signatory Booking Agents

The AFM maintains an online list of franchised booking agents for the US and Canada. These agents are signatories to the AFM's Booking Agent Agreement, which sets standards for legally enforceable contracts specifying negotiated fees, working conditions, and commissions.

Exclusive Member Services

AFM GoPro Music - Your Single Source For Live Music

AFM GoPro Lessons - Learn From a Pro - Play Like a Pro

AFM GoPro Hosting - Professional Web Hosting Services

Immigration Assistance

As an international union representing professional musicians in both the United States and Canada, we provide immigration assistance to our members who accept gigs across the border. We work with the governments of both countries to cut through the hassle of "red tape" usually associated with obtaining work visas.

Claims on Default

In the event a purchaser defaults on payment to members for a contracted engagement, Local 618 and/or the AFM will work to resolve the dispute between the parties administratively. If this proves unsuccessful, Local 618 will pay members scale wages for the engagement and the Local and/or Federation will pursue the claim through a variety of legal methods.

Pension Fund

Members have the option of having the employer make contributions to the Pension fund of up to 15% of wages paid on their behalf. Please contact the office for more information.

Negotiated Agreements

International, national, and local agreements covering all types of musical work ensure fair and timely payments as well as benefits and royalties (where applicable) for the reuse and new use of music recorded under these agreements.

Legal Contracts

A signed AFM contract provides members with legal protection and a clear understanding of their rights and obligations.

Join Us

We invite you to join the Musicians Association of Albuquerque Local 618 and take advantage of the many benefits and services we offer to our members. Whether you are a full-time or part-time musician, it is to your advantage to belong to the only organization that truly represents the interests of musicians and performers.