American Federation of Musicians – If you’re working musician, there’s a good chance you’ll be playing in situations, like TV and film, or venues, that either favour or require union membership. In the U.S. and Canada, the AFM, through its various locals, provides important protections through negotiated contract rates and other benefits, like access to gigs. Visit the AFM here: https://www.afm.org/
Band Merch – If you’re a solo or group performer, merch is an essential aspect of income for musicians. One t-shirt is worth ten thousand streams, unfortunately. We’ve used Altacolor for our own promotional merch since 2016, and the quality has always been stellar with intelligent customer service. They print and embroider t-shirts, hoodies and other goods that will make you look good: https://www.altacolor.com or you can call (888) 410-0360 and ask for Dave.
Musician’s Supplies – We STRONGLY encourage you to patronise your local mom and pop shop as online retailers can supply lots of things we all need on a regular basis, the mom and pops are important to support. Why? Isn’t it survival of the fittest? Local shops support local music education through rentals and repairs. What do you think will happen if school programs will need to rely on online-only companies to support them? Costs will go up and impact tight school budgets for music, which will eventually impact programs out of existence. Music education is essential for the future of musical creativity. So, rather than link the big online retailers here, go on an do a search for your local music stores and visit them. Buy some rosin, picks, reeds, a cable – whatever is suitable for you to ensure a musical future for all.
Streaming Services – Just not even going to go there. Visit the YouTube channel for Benn Jordan to discover how streaming services are impacting musicians and composers and what to do about it.