Business Details
Denver Musicians Association - Professional Musicians in Colorado
Founded in 1890 as the Musical Protective Association of Denver, our organization has evolved into a cornerstone of professional music advocacy in the Rocky Mountain region. As Local 20-623 of the American Federation of Musicians since 1897, we represent over 650 professional musicians across Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Our mission centers on elevating industry standards through collective bargaining agreements, legal protections for contracted work, and fostering a robust network of musical professionals. With more than 130 years of continuous service, we provide members access to a continent-wide network of 70,000 musicians while maintaining our commitment to local cultural development.Our democratic structure ensures member voices shape policy decisions, including wage standards and working conditions. Through strategic partnerships with the AFM and AFL-CIO, we offer critical benefits like health care plans, pension programs, and legal recourse for unpaid contracts. Our historical archives dating to the 1890s demonstrate our enduring dedication to musicians' rights and professional development. As both a labor union and professional association, we balance advocacy with practical resources like job placement services, audition notices, and educational programs. Our office in Lakewood, Colorado serves as the operational hub for this vital network of musical professionals.
Services
Hire a Professional Musician
Music Lessons
Ensemble Performances
Audition Notices
Contract Negotiations
Highlights and features
- Established in 1890 as Colorado's premier musicians' union
- Guarantee payment through union contract enforcement
- Access to continent-wide network of 70,000 professional musicians
- Legal protections for contracted performance work
- Democratically governed with member-driven policy decisions
Associations and certifications
- American Federation of Musicians
- AFL-CIO
What people say
Strong legal protections
Valuable networking opportunities
Industry-standard wage advocacy
Comprehensive benefits access
Historical significance
Services
Hire a Professional Musician
Connect with qualified musicians for any event through our extensive network of 650+ professionals. We provide vetted performers across all genres and instruments, ensuring quality entertainment for weddings, corporate events, and cultural festivals. Our members maintain industry-standard rates and professional conduct.
Music Lessons
Access experienced instructors through our teacher directory featuring professionals with diverse expertise. Our educators offer private and group lessons for all skill levels, covering multiple instruments and musical styles. Each instructor maintains professional standards through our association's quality guidelines.
Ensemble Performances
Book complete musical groups for special occasions from our curated directory of professional ensembles. We facilitate coordination between event planners and established performance groups, ensuring seamless execution of musical requirements for any venue size or style preference.
People
Ron Bland
President / Chief Operations Officer
Ron Bland leads our organization with decades of experience in music advocacy and union operations. He oversees daily affairs while maintaining our commitment to professional standards and member services.
David Brussel
Secretary
David Brussel manages administrative operations and documentation for our association. His work ensures accurate record-keeping and smooth implementation of organizational policies.
Mike Fitzmaurice
Executive Board Member
Mike Fitzmaurice contributes strategic oversight as part of our elected board. His expertise helps shape policy decisions affecting wages, working conditions, and industry standards.
Greg Harper
Executive Board Member
Greg Harper provides governance leadership through his board membership. He works with fellow directors to maintain our organization's financial health and operational effectiveness.
Steve Shurack
Executive Board Member
Steve Shurack participates in policy formulation and implementation. His board service focuses on maintaining strong member benefits and expanding professional opportunities.
Questions
What is the Denver Musicians Association?
We are a professional labor organization representing over 650 musicians across Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah since 1897.
How does membership benefit musicians?
Members gain legal protections, health benefits, pension programs, and access to a continent-wide network of 70,000 professionals.
Can non-union musicians work professionally?
While possible, union membership provides critical protections including guaranteed payment through collective bargaining agreements.
How do you find local musicians?
Our directories connect event planners with vetted professionals across all musical genres and performance requirements.
What historical significance do you have?
Founded in 1890 as the Musical Protective Association, we've maintained continuous service to Colorado musicians for over 130 years.
