About TMA, Local 149 AFM

At TMA, we are committed to offering musicians the opportunities they need to adapt and flourish within the ever-evolving music industry.

Our mission is to make the industry a place where musicians can work in a respectful and safe environment, receive fair compensation for that work, and have the freedom to express their creativity.

TMA is dedicated to fostering community and providing unwavering support that empowers musicians to achieve their highest potential and strike the perfect note.

We Envision Legacy

We ensure fair pay.

We are dedicated to ensuring that as a musician your work is both respected and compensated fairly.

We make you heard.

We amplify your voice within a democratic and forward-thinking community.

We fight exploitation.

We are steadfast in our opposition to exploitation and united in supporting our members through thick and thin.

We value respect.

We commit to treating everyone with dignity, fostering an inclusive and respectful environment.

We uphold rules.

We uphold our shared standards and rules, ensuring fairness and accountability for everyone.

We act decisively.

We organize, negotiate fair terms, engage politically, encourage participation, cultivate diverse leadership, and forge alliances for social and economic progress.

In the late 19th century, the bustling city of Toronto was alive with the sound of music. Street corners, concert halls, and theatres thrummed with melodies, yet the musicians behind these performances faced a tumultuous world. It was amidst this cacophony of artistic fervour and economic uncertainty that the seeds of the Toronto Musicians’ Association (TMA) were sown.

Founded in 1887 by a group of visionary musicians, TMA sought to unite and empower those whose lives were dedicated to the art of music. These early pioneers recognized that, while music had the power to captivate and inspire, the artists themselves needed protection and support to thrive in an industry fraught with challenges. They aspired to create a collective voice that would advocate for fair wages, secure working conditions, and the recognition that musicians rightfully deserved.

By June 15, 1901, TMA had garnered enough strength and influence to be officially chartered as Local 149 of the American Federation of Musicians (AFM). This milestone marked the beginning of a new era, as TMA stood as a beacon for professional musicians throughout the greater Toronto area. From its inception, the association focused on fostering an environment where musicians could flourish, providing essential services and support to navigate the evolving landscape of the music industry.

TMA grew steadily, representing a diverse array of musicians across concert halls, clubs, radio, television, and recording studios. The association’s mission was clear: to ensure that every note played resonated with the dignity and respect owed to its creators. Through collective bargaining, legal assistance, health and dental insurance, and public relations support, TMA provided a robust foundation for its members.

Today, TMA remains dedicated to its founding principles, championing the rights and well-being of over 3,000 professional musicians. It continues to adapt and innovate, addressing contemporary challenges while honouring its rich legacy. From negotiating fair contracts to providing vital health benefits, TMA is an indispensable ally in the lives of Toronto’s musicians, echoing the dreams and aspirations of its founders over a century ago.

Members can access a full PDF copy of the current Bylaws of the Toronto Musicians’ Association in the member’s only section of the website.