American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada, Local 174-496

80,000 musicians comprise the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) who perform in orchestras, backup bands, festivals, clubs and theaters—both on Broadway and on tour. AFM members also make music for films, TV, commercials and sound recordings. 

AFM Local 174-496 represents Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Lafayette) with the purpose is to unite the professional musicians within their jurisdiction without discrimination; to organize and to provide services to organized professional musicians and to secure improved wages, hours, working conditions and other economic advantages for the professional musician in membership through collective bargaining and to establish terms and conditions for equitable and fair dealings among its members.