Does it count as an Aftra under 5 if you are just singing? I will be doing Aftra background as a part of a group of singers singing some tunes. I don't have any lines.

haven't you answered your own question? "I will be doing Aftra background "

I'm only familiar with the SAG regs on that...

It doesn't matter if you're singing, screaming, or even coughing. If the action can be scripted, it's considered legitimate dialogue. However, THE UTTERANCE MUST BE ATTRIBUTABLE TO YOU ALONE FOR IT TO BE CONSIDERED AS AN UPGRADE OR UNDER FIVE. If it cannot be confirmed as emanating from you specifically, it is classified as "walla-walla," and considered only background noise.

I'd check with AFTRA for their determination. For a possible upgrade, isn't a phone call worth it?

"Whatever works."

www.robertkim.com

I believe the AFTRA rules are very similar to the above poster's.

Robert, I didn't look a the SAG rate sheet, but I did just consult my AFTRA rate sheet, and actually, AFTRA does have both an on camera and off camera chorus singer rate which is close to the amount paid for an AFTRA Under 5....But I have no idea if tuscangirl's role falls in to this category. Tuscangirl, you can just call AFTRA and ask.

Where do can I get a copy of both Aftra and Sag "Rate" Sheets?

Google "aftra rate sheet" and "sag rate sheet." You will find what you need.

I had only asked because the person who arranged the job said that there was a good chance that I would be upgraded. But, I did the answer to my question elsewhere, thank you.

I did get upgraded! I was paid the AFTRA background rate.

Now that’s what I call a story with happy ending.

Don’t spend all that money in one place!!

“Whatever works.”

www.robertkim.com

Be careful what you wish for -- Being union aftra backround makes you a must join with aftra!!! You have 30 more days to work aftra jobs but after that you must join if you want to another aftra job -- and aftra bg is just not worth it!

Oh man...

Singers are never considered background actors. You should've been under a group 3-8 chorus on-camera contract. Whoever contracted this job got away with this...

What does a group 3-8 chorus on camera contract pay? I got the job from an LA background service.

I just got a letter from AFTRA saying that I have to join and the letter had a $500 check in it. Wow, was I stunned. What was the extra money for? The letter did not say. I will call AFTRA, but am baffled by the extra $$.

Looks like valley_girl was right. It's great you got compensated!

I think that the letter from AFTRA means that if you want to work on an AFTRA project you're a must join. But until you work on an AFTRA project you don't have to join. Confirmation from others requested, please. Or, call AFTRA and confirm.

I confirmed. I do have to join if I work AFTRA again.

The reason I got paid way more than what I expected was that AFTRA says that I was actually a principal and that someone who had also worked the project saw it playing in a movie theater and then called them.