New York, NY (March 1, 2019) – Today, the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), installed its new President, John Coleman, following the resignation of James Odom from the position. President Coleman moves into his new role per the Union’s constitution which provides that the First Vice President assumes the duties of the President upon resignation. Currently, a full-time Stage Manager at Lyric Opera of Chicago, President Coleman becomes the first Stage Manager to hold the position. “AGMA has been a part of my life for 30 years as an Artist, Delegate, and Vice President. The membership can count on AGMA’s Board of Governors and Staff to vigorously represent their interests. I am honored and look forward to serving as AGMA’s... Read More -->

If you are seeking to be run for office in the upcoming AGMA election, completed petitions must be returned on or before March 1, 2019 to Elizabeth Drorbaugh at the National Office either in person, by regular mail or by email to Elections@musicalartists.org or by facsimile to 212-262-9088, and must include the signed acceptance of the candidate where indicated on the petition. Petitions received after the deadline will not be accepted, and only petitions on the official form prepared by the National Office will be accepted. In addition, fully completed Slate Declaration Forms (if applicable) are due by March 1, 2019. No member is permitted to be nominated as a candidate to more than one position during this election. All information ... Read More -->

From AGMA President James Odom Dear Colleagues, The last twelve years have been the most fulfilling of my life.  Serving as AGMA’s President has been an honor beyond my ability to express.  It has been a true privilege to meet so many of you – some in person, some virtually – as I have participated in contract negotiations and attended area meetings and served with so many in the elected leadership. However, all things come to an end.  At the regularly scheduled meeting of AGMA’s Board of Governors, I resigned my position of President of AGMA, effective March 1, 2019.  In accordance with the provisions within AGMA’s Constitution, First Vice President John Coleman will assume the office of President until the new Presi... Read More -->

Elections for the American Guild of Musical Artists National Officers and the Board of Governors will take place on May 17, 2019.  Eligible AGMA members may submit a petition for either an Officer or Governor position. Only official AGMA petition forms will be accepted. Please ensure that the petition used states “Official AGMA Election Petition” at the top of the page. Serving as an Officer or Governor is your opportunity to represent your colleagues and have a voice in conducting the business of the union. A complete set of election rules and materials have been posted on AGMA’s website. Please log in to MyAGMA, and select "2019 National Election" from under the MyAGMA menu - or if you are already logged in, you may directly ac... Read More -->

The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) fully supports the Chicago Federation of Musicians and the Orchestra at Lyric Opera in their efforts to obtain a fair contract. As of Tuesday, October 9, the Lyric Opera Orchestra has been on strike to fight back against cuts that will diminish Lyric Opera of Chicago as one of the world’s great opera companies. AGMA members are encouraged to visit https://www.chicagolyricoperaorchestra.com for more information and updates.... Read More -->

CHICAGO (10/8/2018) – Lyric Opera of Chicago and the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) announced today that they have reached a multi-year labor agreement extending through the 2020/21 season.  The Agreement is subject to the ratification of AGMA members and approval of the AGMA Board of Governors. Details are not being released to the public at this time. About AGMA: The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) is a labor organization that represents the people who create and engage in America’s operatic, choral and dance performances across the world. AGMA represents approximately 7,500 opera and classical singers, ballet and modern dancers, and production personnel at all principal opera houses, ballet com... Read More -->

We are excited to welcome two new additions to AGMA’s senior staff team - Allison Beck and Hope Singer (see full biographies below). Beginning October 1, 2018, Allison Beck will become Mid-Atlantic Counsel, representing AGMA members in the Washington, DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and other southeast areas.  Hope Singer officially will become West Coast Counsel, representing AGMA members in the Southern California Area as well as part of our Northwest Area. “I am delighted to welcome these two highly credentialed labor attorneys who bring a wealth of experience to AGMA.  Both will ensure that our union continues to provide exceptional member services by forcefully advocating on behalf of artists in opera, dance and choral fie... Read More -->

The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) condemns all sexual abuse and sexual harassment.  AGMA is fully committed to ensuring that the artists we represent have safe, supportive workplaces.  We recognize and appreciate the brave women and men who have come forward as part of the #MeToo movement and acknowledge that the arts community has too often turned a blind eye to sexual misconduct. Singers and dancers, and many other performing artists, work in close physical proximity to their co-workers, presenting an art that requires bodily contact and touching.  It is imperative that these workers have confidence that they can do their work free from sexual harassment and abuse.  As the union representing these artists, one of our pri... Read More -->

New York, New York - Friday, September 14, 2018 — The two major musical unions at the Metropolitan Opera, the Associated Musicians of Greater New York, Local 802, AFM and the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) announce the approval of a new contract with the institution, pending final ratification on Monday by the AGMA Board of Governors. The unions represent several categories of workers at the Met, including the Regular and Associate Musicians of the MET Orchestra and Music Staff and Assistant Conductors, represented by Local 802, and the AGMA-represented Chorus, Soloists, Stage Managers, Stage Directors, Staff Performers, Dancers, and Choreographers. The joint statement is as follows: “We, the musicians and musical artists ... Read More -->

Attention Metropolitan Opera Artists: Information and voting instructions were sent out via email today for Artists covered under the AGMA collective bargaining agreements. If you are a Soloist, Dancer or Extra Chorister who has worked under the contract during last four years (or are contracted to work during the upcoming season) and did not receive voting instructions please check your “Spam” or “Junk” folders first.  If you have not located it there, please contact Candace Itow at Candace@musicalartists.org or call AGMA’s National Office at 212-265-3687. All other categories will receive separate notices explaining voting procedures. All votes must be received no later than 5:30 p.m. on Thursday September 6th. Than... Read More -->