About the VMA

From union hall to concert hall, we have advocated for professional musicians across mainland British Columbia since 1901. With more than 1,500 members, we are proud to be the largest musicians’ association in Western Canada.

Our TeamFAQs

We’re the Vancouver Musicians’ Association — Local 145 of the Canadian Federation of Musicians.

Since 1901, we’ve been standing up for professional musicians across mainland British Columbia. With over 1,500 members, we’re proud to be the largest Musicians’ Association in Western Canada.

Who we serve

From orchestras to groups to solo musicians, our members represent the full spectrum of B.C.’s music scene:

  • The Vancouver Symphony and Opera Orchestra

  • Regional orchestras such as the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra and Prince George Symphony Orchestra

  • Broadway and touring show musicians

  • Jazz artists, recording musicians, freelancers, and club performers

  • Rock, blues, and contemporary music creators

 

We represent musicians across mainland B.C. — from the Lower Mainland to the Interior and the North — everywhere except Vancouver Island and the Columbia River Valley.

 

 

The VMA is part of something much bigger.

Back in 1896, musicians gathered in Indianapolis to form the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) — the first organization to demand better treatment for artists.

Today, The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada, AFL-CIO, CLC is the world’s largest association of performing artists. It currently consists of over 300 local unions throughout the US and Canada with a total membership numbering well over 67,000, and is recognized as a force in the industry that speaks with authority on behalf of professional musicians.

The Vancouver Musicians’ Association (VMA), with a membership of over 1,500 musicians, is the third largest local in Canada and one of the 300 Locals of the AFM.

What we do

  • Equitable remuneration and fair treatment for musicians

    We negotiate fair wages and working conditions through collective agreements.

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  • Building strong professional standards

    We provide the business tools and protections that empower musicians in reaching their goals.

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  • Fostering a supportive musical community

    We connect artists with opportunities while strengthening our local music communities.

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