The Freelance Musicians Association (FMA) exists to unite, support, and advocate for freelance and independent musicians across the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada. As a binational body of working musicians, the FMA is dedicated to strengthening the economic security, professional standing, and collective power of those engaged in self-directed and multi-employer work.
The FMA provides a structured and inclusive forum for freelance musicians of all genres and disciplines to identify shared challenges, exchange knowledge, and develop strategies to improve working conditions across the evolving music industry. Through open dialogue, member-led leadership, and committee-driven initiatives, the FMA ensures that the voices and experiences of freelance musicians directly inform Federation priorities, policies, and organizing efforts.
The FMA works to expand access to resources, promote equitable standards across non-traditional and emerging areas of work, and support organizing efforts that address the unique realities of freelance careers—including live performance, recording, touring, and digital media.
The FMA strives to approach its work through an anti-oppression lens, addressing racism, gender-based discrimination, ableism, and other systems of oppression which affect musicians within our Union, industry, and culture at large.
The FMA, in unity with AFM Locals, Federation leadership, AFM Player Conferences, and allied organizations, fosters connection, amplifies advocacy, and builds collective strength among freelance musicians. Through its work, the FMA seeks to ensure that all freelance and independent musicians are empowered, protected, and represented within the Federation and throughout the broader music industry.