Last updated on Feb 13, 2024

What are the most important organizations for music professionals to join?

Whether you are a musician, songwriter, producer, engineer, manager, or any other type of music professional, joining relevant organizations can help you advance your career, network with peers, access resources, and advocate for your rights and interests. However, with so many options available, how do you choose which ones to join? Here are some of the most important organizations for music professionals to join, based on their benefits, services, and reputation.

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1 ASCAP and BMI

ASCAP and BMI are the two largest performing rights organizations (PROs) in the US, representing millions of songwriters, composers, and publishers. They collect and distribute royalties for the public performance of musical works, such as on radio, TV, streaming, live venues, and more. By joining one of these PROs, you can register your songs, track your earnings, and receive payments for your work. You can also access educational, networking, and promotional opportunities, as well as discounts on various products and services.

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Geovane Bento

Sócio e Diretor na LEP Music Brasil | Coolhunter | Estrategista Fonográfico | Membro da Academia do Grammy Latino | Especialista em Diferenciação Profissional e Networking | Autor do Livro “Construído Estrelas”.
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For music professionals, organizations like BMI and ASCAP are crucial for collecting copyright royalties, essential for financial health. SoundExchange manages digital royalties, vital in the streaming era. The Recording Academy, known for the GRAMMYs, provides educational resources and networking opportunities, aiding career management. For independent musicians, AIM and A2IM are key, offering support, education, and advocacy. These organizations not only ensure a solid financial foundation through rights and royalties management but also promote professional development, networking opportunities, and support for releases, addressing significant aspects of a music career.

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2 NARAS and LARAS

NARAS and LARAS are the organizations behind the prestigious Grammy Awards, the most recognized honors in the music industry. NARAS stands for the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, and LARAS stands for the Latin Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. By becoming a member of one of these academies, you can vote for the Grammy nominees and winners, attend exclusive events, and participate in advocacy and philanthropy initiatives. You can also benefit from professional development, mentorship, and health and wellness programs.

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Jerome Renard

Mixing Hits for Labels and Indie - Working closely with their teams | 250M Streams | Music's Future Builder
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Joining NARAS and LARAS can bring some advantages as cited here, but it's based on recommendations to be able to join. If you want to become a member, I'd suggest doing the following: 1. Invest in your career and work on a bunch of records for a few years 2. Network with peers When you feel you would meet the criteria to join 3. Ask Recording Academy you know if they're willing to recommend you.

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3 AFM and SAG-AFTRA

AFM and SAG-AFTRA are the two main labor unions for music professionals in the US, representing performers, recording artists, musicians, singers, and more. They negotiate collective bargaining agreements with employers, such as record labels, studios, broadcasters, and live producers, to secure fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. By joining one of these unions, you can enjoy protection, representation, and assistance in case of disputes, grievances, or legal issues. You can also access health and retirement plans, insurance, and career resources.

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4 A2IM and CIMA

A2IM and CIMA are the trade associations for independent music labels and distributors in the US and Canada, respectively. They advocate for the interests and rights of the independent music sector, which accounts for a significant share of the global music market. By joining one of these associations, you can network with other independent music professionals, access market research and data, and receive support and guidance on various aspects of the music business. You can also participate in trade missions, showcases, and events to expand your reach and exposure.

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5 AES and NAMM

AES and NAMM are the professional societies for audio engineers and music product manufacturers, respectively. They promote excellence, innovation, and education in the fields of audio technology and music equipment. By joining one of these societies, you can stay updated on the latest trends, developments, and best practices in the audio and music industry. You can also attend conferences, workshops, webinars, and exhibitions to learn from experts, showcase your products or services, and network with potential partners and customers.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Jerome Renard

Mixing Hits for Labels and Indie - Working closely with their teams | 250M Streams | Music's Future Builder
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As a producer or engineers owing royalties on multiples records I'd also make sure to be registered with: - The MLC - SoundExchange. They help you collect your royalties and get paid. Each of those collect a specific section of all the different royalties. I'd make sure to check and register with the one you need.

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What are the most important organizations for music professionals to join?

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1 ASCAP and BMI

2 NARAS and LARAS

3 AFM and SAG-AFTRA

4 A2IM and CIMA

5 AES and NAMM

6 Here’s what else to consider

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