CA Arts Advocacy Week 2021: Take Action!

Please join AFM Local 47 along with California Arts Advocates, NIVA CA, and California Association of Museums in urging the state to prioritize funding to the arts and creative industries by investing $1 billion in the arts, culture and creative industries and workforce.

This funding would benefit the recovery of the entire cultural sector: nonprofit cultural organizations, arts businesses, museums, and independent venues, as well as individual artists and creative workers. Continue reading →

Secretary/Treasurer Emeritus Serena Kay Williams Reaches the Grand Milestone

Serena Kay Williams made history as the first woman officer of AFM Local 47 when she was elected Secretary in 1984, a position she held until her retirement in 2007. Her legacy as a trailblazing musicians advocate and union leader stands as an inspiring tale of dedication, perseverance, and strength. AFM Local 47 President Emeritus Hal Espinosa shares his congratulations to his longtime friend, colleague and mentor in honor of her 100th birthday on April 9, 2021.

by Hal Espinosa, AFM Local 47 President Emeritus

Serena, less than 1% of all people have the privilege of earning the title “Centurion” and fortunately for us, this has been granted to such a remarkable person. A 100th birthday is a Grand Milestone and something to be celebrated. I would like to say, “When I grow up, I want to be like you.” Some might say I’m too old to use that line, so instead, I’ll just wish you a very Happy Birthday!
Continue reading →

General Membership Meeting: Monday, April 26, 2021

Please join us for our next General Membership Meeting on Monday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. 

On the agenda (subject to change):
* Presentation of 50-year Pins
* Nominations to Fill Vacancy on Election Board
* Officer Reports
* Old and New Business

The meeting is open to all Local 47 members in good standing. Registration is required. Once your membership is verified, you will receive an email link with the virtual access code. 

Click here to register Continue reading →

#StopAsianHate

AFM Local 47 condemns the horrific acts of hate and violence targeting Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. Our union was founded on the core principles of dignity, respect & equality, and we stand together in supporting our AAPI communities. 

2021 Oscars

Congratulations 93rd Annual Academy Awards nominees! Three of the Best Original Score nominees were scored with members of the American Federation of Musicians Local 47 in Los Angeles:

  • “Da 5 Bloods” (Terence Blanchard)
  • “Mank” (Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross)
  • “Soul” (Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross and Jon Batiste)

Listen to our “Oscars 2021 – #AFM47” playlist here:

The 93rd Academy Awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, April 25, televised live on ABC from 5-8 p.m. (PST). 

David Angel Jazz Ensemble: ‘Out on the Coast’

A Triple-Disc Triumph a Lifetime in the Making

Los Angeles native David Angel is one of the most respected composer/arrangers on the West Coast; however, he is virtually unknown to the general public. That is why tuba and bass-trombone master Jim Self decided it was time to rectify that situation. He brought together the David Angel Jazz Ensemble to record “Out on the Coast,” a gorgeous three-disc, first of its kind anthology of Angel’s music. Continue reading →

Hearing Board rulings

The AFM Local 47 Hearing Board has issued the following:

  • Hearing Board Ruling 47-2019-01 – Kern v Chase
  • Hearing Board Ruling 47-2020-01 – Byrd v Baptist
  • Hearing Board Reprimand 47-2019-01 – Ms. Deborah Chase

These documents may be found in the members section of the Local 47 website. Once logged in, navigate to the “Members-Only Scales and Documents” page and view the document under the header “Hearing Board” in the right-hand column.