John K. Painting Named Director of Electronic Media Services at American Federation of Musicians

By Afton Wooten

The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) welcomes John K. Painting as the Director of the Electronic Media Services Division (EMSD) and Assistant to the President.

International President Ray Hair appointed Painting to this position following the unexpected passing of former EMSD Director Pat Varriale in May 2022.

Painting has worked with AFM since 2019. Initially, he worked as EMSD Assistant Director, working under Varriale. Painting has served on the bargaining team for EMSD contract negotiations, and worked on projects with Organizing & Education Department and the National Public Television Agreement. He is recognized for his contributions to helping with internet and streaming services during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Upon starting this position on June 23, Painting stated in an official press release that “I look forward to using the skills and relationships I have developed in the past dozen years working in electronic media to help protect the services of and enrich the lives of musicians.”

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