AMERICAN GUILD OF MUSICAL ARTISTS

Performs on-site visits to member workplaces—including rehearsals, meetings, and performances—and hires regional representatives to conduct negotiations and provide direct support to members at 80 major performing arts companies nationwide.

Secures fair wages, benefits, working conditions, and minimum compensation for performing artists through negotiation and enforcement of over 70 collective bargaining agreements with opera, ballet, choral, and dance organizations across the United States. Examples include agreements with the New York Philharmonic, Houston Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and Opera Colorado.

Fosters member-led communities for vocal soloists, choristers, and staging professionals to share knowledge, mentor peers, address workplace challenges, and build collective power across employers and disciplines.

Organizes member-led caucuses and initiatives to confront systemic racism, discrimination, and bias based on race, gender identity, and ethnicity. Supports spaces for Black, AAPI, and 2SLGBTQIA+ members to advocate for equitable, inclusive, and affirming workplaces, with specific attention to trans and non-binary performers.

Offers education and training programs for union officers, delegates, shop stewards, and negotiation committees to strengthen member leadership and collective bargaining effectiveness. Includes professional staff support for training delivery.

Administers the AGMA Relief Fund to support members in times of need and provides access to discounted goods and services through the Union Plus program for members and their families.

Organizes and hosts auditions for AGMA-protected jobs in opera, dance, and choral performance, with application deadlines and event dates scheduled throughout the year, including multiple events in August and September 2026.

Oversees the general management, budgeting, financial monitoring, and staffing of AGMA through coordination between the Board of Governors and professional staff. Responsibilities include approving budgets, reviewing audits, setting compensation, and managing union funds and properties.

Provides a flexible initiation fee payment plan allowing new members to pay the $1,000 fee in monthly installments of at least $50, with options to pause payments in non-working months and settle the full amount within four years of joining.

Leads editorial oversight and creative production of AGMAzine, the union’s national publication, to support communication between members and the organization.

Protects members’ contractual and legal rights through legal representation in arbitrations, administrative proceedings, litigation support, and grievance handling. Addresses issues including workplace discrimination, harassment, and unsafe conditions.

Created the AGMA/SDC Return to Stage and Performing Arts Playbook with input from an Expert Medical Advisory Board, including tiered reopening frameworks and safety protocols to mitigate health risks (e.g., during the COVID-19 pandemic) for singers, dancers, stage managers, and directors.