i think htere is a union which is formed, mainly for the touring musician..LOcal 1000 ....John McCutcheon has been pres. one of
the things it tries to do is help ill or injured musicians who
are not able to work/play due to health problems. I am not aware
of musicians' unions, and do not believe i have ever known any
one who is in on. Maybe symphony/orchestra musicians. Perhaps
more can be learned here: http://www.local1000.com/
i do not know how most people i know could join...we make
a few bucks-10-100 when we play, and not enough for uniion
dues, but maybe the union would insist on better pay, but
I would like to know more.