Black members of more than 40 orchestras have launched the Black Orchestral Network (BON), a collective of Black orchestral musicians dedicated to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for Black people in the orchestral field. Continue reading
Throughout his career as an accomplished composer and pianist, Canadian-born Evan Wish has traveled all over the world. But his most recent trip to Italy proved to be among the greatest highlights of his life.
In October 2021, Wish was knighted by the Order of Saint George de Bourgogne in Italy for the merits in the international music category and humanitarian gifting thorough the years. Continue reading
by Susan Chatman, AFM Local 47 Diversity Committee
Congratulations to the music production team of the 94th Academy Awards for their hard work and superb artistry.
The music production leaders should also be applauded for their diverse representation of musicians, music styles and performances.
There were close to 120 musicians who performed at the 94th Academy Awards. What is notable was the cultural diversity, blend of musical styles, ages and genders from all over the world. Continue reading
February is the annual celebration of the lives, work, and influence of Black Americans to U.S. history and culture. This Black History Month we celebrate Black musicians whose groundbreaking music helped change the world of music. Continue reading
Congratulations to all of our AFM Local 47 members who worked on the music for the following 2021 Emmy®-nominated projects! Continue reading
Grammy Award-winning R&B singer Bruno Mars began to find success in the early 2000s by writing songs for popular artists. After several years as one of pop music’s premier songwriters, Mars broke out as a singer in his own right with the 2010 hit “Nothin’ On You.” Continue reading
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
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:
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).
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
A Rare Glimpse Behind the Curtain!
Have you ever wondered what goes on backstage at professional shows? After working with some of the biggest names in show business, professional trumpet player John Hughes Bennett shares unique stories about the famous entertainers, dancers, singers, and musicians he worked with for over 60 years. Continue reading