AFM LOCAL 293 · CHARTERED 1903
Hamilton
Musicians’ Guild
Your experience deserves respect.
Your passion deserves protection.
Fair pay. Contract security. A community that stands with you. Making music work for musicians in Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville.
New member offer · October 1–December 31
Your $105 initiation fee. Waived.
Pay only $180 annual dues. Membership valid through September 30, 2027.
YOUR GUILD, AT A GLANCE
What brings you here?
THE LIBRETTO · VOLUME 2, 2026
The sound of
our community.
News, member stories and Guild updates from across the region. Read the latest issue or explore the archive.
Browse past issues →
BY MUSICIANS. FOR MUSICIANS.
Your backstage crew.
As a gigging musician in the Hamilton/Burlington/Oakville region, navigating contracts, fair pay and copyright shouldn’t feel like a solo act. We bridge the gap between your creative drive and professional security. Join a vibrant local network of veteran players, secure access to group insurance and ensure you get paid what you are worth at every venue. Don’t just play — thrive.
Invest in your career, protect your craft and find your community today. Let’s make music work for you. Secure your legacy and amplify your voice with local peers who value fair pay, contract security and pension stability.
Contract & legal protection
Legally enforceable standard contracts and assistance collecting payments when a client defaults.
Paid community gigs
MPTF grants for festivals, community events, schools, seniors’ residences and libraries.
Career & booking services
Free local and international AFM referral listings, licensed agents and industry guidance.
US & cross-border gigs
P2 work permit assistance for playing in the United States, saving thousands in legal fees.
Pension & insurance
A tailored pension plan, low-cost instrument insurance and personal and health insurance options.
Legislative representation
Advocacy for copyright reform and royalties, including Neighbouring Rights.
Networking & socials
Social gatherings, mentorship and a supportive community of experienced professional peers.
Join with a peer
Join with a colleague or bandmate and each person saves $105 on initiation fees.
IT PAYS TO BELONG TO THE HMG
Free concerts.
Paid musicians.
We can pay you and your band to play free gigs through the Music Performance Trust Fund.
$165
Band leader · one hour
$145
Each band member · one hour
JOIN WITH A PEER
Better together.
The Hamilton Musicians’ Guild can be the most important partner for your music career. If you and a colleague or bandmate join at the same time, we waive both the Local and Federation initiation fees. Total savings: $105 per person.
NEXT MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Monday, November 30 · 7 pm
At the HMG office. All members welcome.
MEMBER ORIENTATION
First Tuesday monthly · 1 pm
At the HMG office. You are welcome to attend — it would be great to see you there.
Make music work for you.
Current Members
Renew your MembershipCredit Card PaymentsUseful LinksP2 Work VisasMusicians’ Pension FundMental Health ResourcesMusicians and TaxesTaxes and the Professional MusicianOur mission
United for improved wages, working conditions and economic advantages through collective negotiation; supporting cultural, educational and charitable activities and the mission of the American Federation of Musicians.
Read our full mission →