Below are the statements and photos of all candidates for Local 802 offices who submitted their statements to Allegro by the deadline. As per the election rules, “all candidates were afforded the right to submit statements and photos in accordance with these rules.” As in the past, candidates are listed in alphabetical order under the primary office they are running for. The Local 802 election will take place in person on Tuesday, Dec. 3. All voting information is in the election rules.

Pursuant to Article I, section 2e of the Election Rules, unopposed candidates are deemed elected as of the beginning of the nominee’s term. (The next term begins Jan. 1, 2025.)

CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT

Bob Suttmann (unopposed)

I have a vision for 802. I celebrate our rich diversity and world views. I have great faith in the power of solidarity. Together, let us focus our diversity into a united, powerful message to show the world the pride we have in ourselves, our industry, and our Union. With humility and integrity, I will devote every ounce of my energy to this cause for the next term and the rest of my life. I honor the opportunity to serve you and build upon the strength of our great Union.

Pursuant to Article I, Section 1(d) of the Local 802 bylaws, the individual elected to the office of president shall also serve as a delegate to the New York City Central Labor Council, the New York State Federation of Labor Convention, and the national convention of the American Federation of Musicians (unless that individual is a member of the International Executive Board of the American Federation of Musicians).

CANDIDATE FOR FINANCIAL VICE PRESIDENT

Karen Fisher (unopposed)

It is my honor to serve Local 802 as Financial Vice President and delegate to the AFM convention. Besides maintaining our practice of rigorous financial oversight, my department will continue to negotiate robust contracts in the single engagement classical field. My main goal this term is to bring in new orchestras through intensive member engagement. I will strongly advocate for bylaw changes at the AFM convention that will put the needs of Local 802 members first. I start my third term with optimism for our future as this administration has the responsibility of seeing through our building renovation and re-opening.

CANDIDATE FOR RECORDING VICE PRESIDENT

Harvey S. Mars (unopposed)

During my first term I completed negotiations for the DCI agreement, one of the first multi-year classical contracts Local 802 has negotiated in many years. I also achieved the best agreement the New School Jazz School has ever worked under as well as an extremely progressive Club Date agreement. I have achieved agreements with over thirty different bargaining units, revived the Local 802 Senior Musicians Association as well as Local 802’s relationship with the Jazz Foundation of America. I am extremely proud to be able to serve the membership of Local 802 in a second term as RVP.

CANDIDATES FOR EXECUTIVE BOARD (vote for no more than 9)

Deborah Assael

As a longstanding member of Local 802 I am fortunate to participate in many facets of our industry. I’m asking for support for re-election to the Executive Board. My governing experience includes a current term on EB, Chair/ NYCC Committee, Theatre Committee, Broadway Negotiating Committee. L802 faces another significant transition in leadership. Experienced independent voices are necessary to provide stability while navigating challenges ahead. Also crucial are newer voices for a fresh approach. Fair contracts and working conditions, inclusion and guidance for newer members, visibility of musicians in the workplace, and maintaining security for members remain important issues to me.

Andrew Bove

I enjoy solving complex problems with interesting people. My goal is to help Local 802 work effectively for all musicians, while successfully adapting to our evolving industry. — Andrew Bove has been a member of the School of American Ballet Orchestra Committee since 2004, fiercely negotiating for musicians’ rights with a data-driven, logical approach. He brings a unique skillset to the executive board, including expertise in media, marketing, project management, technology and engineering. He performs with the Metropolitan Opera, Broadway, recording for film and television, and many freelance classical ensembles. An Emmy® Award winning director, he teaches at Juilliard and holds degrees from Juilliard and Northwestern University.

Bud Burridge

My freelance trumpet career includes work in the concert, recording and theatre fields. As a longtime Executive Board officer, I have served on diverse subcommittees and participated in negotiations for Broadway, Off Broadway, Radio City, Lincoln Center and Covid Health and Safety. Our current administration actively recruited potential first-time candidates. The goal was to create an Executive Board that balances fresh perspectives with grounded experience. As a result, this year’s list of candidates provides both. As a returning board member, I will continue representing Local 802 musicians in order to further strengthen our union’s power, influence and solidarity.

Bettina Covo

Aa long standing union member, I am running for the Executive Board to represent and give a voice to the under-represented segment of 802 membership. I served on the 802 Executive Board in 2010 in addition to working as Broadway Rep, Club Date/Single Engagement Contract Administrator, Education Coordinator, Music Prep Administrator, ERF Fund Coordinator. I have the skills and understanding to work with members, officers and staff to get the job done. With a M.M. degree from Juilliard, I work professionally as a composer/producer/director/keyboardist. Above all, it would be a privilege to serve on the EBoard again.

Sara Cutler

I’m currently 802 President.  I’m hoping to continue in some capacity after I step down, both to facilitate the transition to a new President and to retain oversight of the building renovation. It’s a time consuming job and not something I would feel comfortable dumping in the lap of a new officer. I will offer advice when asked, but stay silent when not. In house, I will encourage the new officers to build a real organizing department and an HR department (2 things I failed to do). And promote board discussion of long term goals to ensure 802’s future.

Julia DeRosa

I’m running for re-election to the executive board because I want to continue to serve all musicians. My priorities include making sure our contracts reflect the needs of an ever-changing music business; forging connections with artists of other NYC unions; educating NYC’s conservatory students about how the union protects our art form; and ensuring that our workplaces are inclusive, supportive, and safe for everyone. I believe a strong union gives us the ability to make a living doing what we love. I would be honored to continue to advocate for and represent the membership of Local 802.

Diva Goodfriend-Koven

A key member of the ABT Orchestra Committee, I’ve participated in negotiating two historic contracts. A Trial Board member since 2001, and committee member for the ACO contract (including provisions creating an Artistic Advisory Committee), I want a seat on the Executive Board because I believe my contributions could help the union, and all musicians thrive. I strive to be open-minded, inclusive, and believe minority voices and transparency are necessary components of informed consensus. A longtime 802 member, I’m grateful for numerous successful years performing on flute and piccolo including thirty years as Associate in the MET Orchestra.

Sarah Haines

As a proud 802 member since 2015, I have worked in many different areas of our industry: Broadway subbing, ABT, club dates, recordings, ASO, off-Broadway, tour and more. I am running for Executive Board after being involved in the Pamphlet B negotiations for AFM, as the chair of the off-Broadway NFP negotiating committee, and Theater Committee subcommittee member. I want to bring a fresh perspective and my freelance experience to leadership, and will work to bring in new members and advocate for more easily accessible information about contracts and their contents, so that everyone knows their rights on the job.

Martha Hyde

As your representative for the last three years, I co-founded DECIBAL, the diversity initiative at Local 802. DECIBAL hosted five events in the club room, placed five articles on AFM racial history in  Allegro and partnered with grassroots advocacy organizations like Maestra and MUSE. I am a delegate to the AFM Convention, a trustee on the 802 heath fund and the AFM pension fund and a member of the Broadway Negotiating Committee. In all of those roles I have been and will remain accessible and accountable to 802 members. I ask for your vote on December 3.

Cynde Iverson

Morris Kainuma

I am seeking reelection for the Executive Board to continue working for and supporting our Local 802 members. If elected to a third term, I will continue to be a dedicated advocate for your needs, hearing and addressing concerns, and fostering a culture of collective participation and inclusion. Since 1990, I have worked with NYC freelance orchestras, Lincoln Center ensembles, Broadway shows, as well as serving on the Met Associates, ABT and Broadway Theatre committees. I will always approach my service on the EBoard with the utmost integrity and commitment and would be honored to have the opportunity again.

John O’Connor

I’m a guitarist, singer and composer, I served Local 802 for two terms as Recording Vice President from 1010 to 2016. Under my leadership we organized the Local’s first nightclub agreement (contract) at 54 Below and first agreement with a music festival (Winter Jazz), among many other achievements. In recent years, organizing in our union has been largely non-existent. As an executive board officer I will work to strengthen our union through organizing and member involvement. Working closely with the new president, I believe my experience and skills will serve the union well in these challenging times for musicians.

Peter Saleh

I’m a percussionist, drummer, and Local 802 member since 2010 working on Broadway, at Radio City, and for orchestras, club dates, and dance classes. In 2018, I was elected as the orchestra steward for Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish, where I loudly and proudly held the line for our Off-Broadway contract in 2022. My articles for Allegro and International Musician articulate my vision for a stronger and more communicative union. As a player with muscular dystrophy, I am also an advocate for better accessibility at workplaces, and am a published author and arranger, patented inventor, and adjunct professor. 

CANDIDATES FOR TRIAL BOARD (vote for no more than 9)

Demian Austin

As Local 802 member and Principal Trombone of the Metropolitan Opera since 1994, I served on the orchestra committee for four years, which included the COVID negotiation and furlough. Decades of conversations and experiences with musicians from Lincoln Center to Broadway and my students reveal the challenges our members and industry face. My guiding principles: skepticism without cynicism, and “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” (Robin Williams) I will help to resolve conflicts with fairness and integrity, fostering unity and upholding the collective strength of our membership.

Janet Axelrod

I have been an active union member, supporter and committee member for many decades! Previously on the Executive Board, I worked to update the Anti-Harassment bylaw (adopted in 2020). We also installed the first hotline for anonymously reporting workplace harassment. I have the experience and desire to promote 802’s role in support of a peaceful workplace, and I promise to adjudicate trials without prejudice. As a flutist and ethnic flutes performer, I work in Broadway, Symphonic, Ballet, Opera and recording. I’m on the Advisory Board for Maestra Music and consult with BMEP and MUSE to create arts equity. Thank you.

Jen Herman

Having been a member of Local 802 since 2010, I have performed in over 25 Broadway shows, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, with the American Ballet Orchestra, the American Symphony Orchestra, numerous performances in Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and on countless TV and Film recordings. I currently serve on the Radio City Orchestra Committee and served on the Board of Governors at a local club. I would love to take the next step and devote my time and energy to the union. Through my honesty and integrity, I vow to demonstrate a fair and impartial voice in support of all of our members.

Aaron Korn

Since joining Local 802 in 2009, I have played on many Broadway shows, have been a part of numerous film and television sessions, and performed with many of the local union orchestras. As a member of the DCINY Orchestra organizing and negotiating committees (2018-2023) I became more involved with our union as we worked to win our first contract! Because of that involvement, I ran, and was elected to the Trial Board in 2021 and have proudly served to better our community. I ask for your vote so I can continue to serve my colleagues in this very important role.

Mary Ann McSweeney

I am a bassist and proud member of Local 802 for over 30 years. My extensive experience spans, broadway, orchestral music, jazz, cabaret, club dates and studio work, giving me a deep understanding of the unique challenges we face as union members. I am committed to advocating for fair treatment, transparency, and the rights of all members. Serving on the trial board, I will bring a balanced and compassionate approach to resolving disputes and ensuring our union remains a strong, supportive community.

Warren Odze

I’m running for Trial Board again because I’m fair and impartial in disputes. For the past 50 years, I’ve served as an in-house contractor and orchestra member on many shows, so I believe I can see the big picture. Many thanks for considering me. Some of my background: B.M. from the Manhattan School of Music, collaborated with: Judy Collins, Peter Allen, Barbara Cook, Hank Jones, Johnny Hartman, Lea Selonga, Audra McDonald, Kenny Rankin, Phoebe Snow, Art Garfunkel and Rod Stewart. Drummer for “The Dick Cavett Show,” Tony Awards, National Symphony, New York Pops, New York Philharmonic and many Broadway shows.

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Allison Seidner

When I joined Local 802 as a freelance cellist, the union felt mysterious and inaccessible. I chose to educate myself about our union and those who represent and protect us. Since 2010, I have been a Theater Committee delegate for all my shows. I am currently serving on the Trial Board and the Broadway and 54 Below Negotiating Committees. I am able to understand multiple perspectives and am comfortable asking questions to help shape my ideas. Transparency and honest communication will make us stronger. I am honored to have served our members and ask for your support for reelection.  

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Sue Williams

As a long-time member of Local 802, a multifaceted musician and a higher education faculty member for 17 years, I am seeking election to the trial board. I will support our members and union bylaws and use my strong interpersonal and communication skills in negotiating fair-minded and equitable conflict resolution. My diverse musical career (broadway, jazz, rock, chamber orchestra, worship music, touring) gives me a well-rounded knowledge of our industry, enabling me to better serve a broad range of union members. Vote Sue Williams for Trial Board.

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Dan Willis

In my 32 years as a member of Local 802, I’ve had diversified career as a woodwind doubler across a variety of musical genes. I’ve performed with the NY Philharmonic, Orchestra of St. Lukes, NYC Ballet, NY Pops, 24 Broadway Shows, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and toured with Michael Brecker and Liza Minelli. I’ve played on countless film scores, jingles and recordings. I’ve served on the Trial Board for 12 years and I am on the Board of Directors of the RMA-NY. I am proud of the work that the Trial Board does in support of our members and By-laws.

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Chad Yarbrough

I have been a Local 802 member for over 25 years and have held a Broadway chair for over 20. I am principal horn of the Riverside Symphony and a member of the American Symphony Orchestra. I have performed and toured extensively with the New York Philharmonic and The Cleveland Orchestra, and I perform regularly with many of New York’s other classical ensembles. I was a member of the Radio City Orchestra, and I have played on numerous film scores and cast albums as well. I have also served on the Theater Committee for Wicked. I am excited to expand my involvement with the union by joining the Trial Board, allowing me to dedicate additional time and effort to support my fellow musicians.

CANDIDATES FOR DELEGATES TO THE AFM CONVENTION

(There are five open positions in this race, and a total of five candidates running, so all are unopposed in this race)

Bud Burridge (unopposed)

This candidate is also running for Executive Board. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Executive Board.

Karen Fisher (unopposed)

This candidate is also running unopposed for Financial Vice President. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Financial Vice President

Diva Goodfriend-Koven (unopposed)

This candidate is also running for Executive Board. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Executive Board.

Martha Hyde (unopposed)

This candidate is also running for Executive Board and Delegate to the NYS Federation of Labor. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Executive Board.

Harvey Mars (unopposed)

This candidate is also running unopposed for Recording Vice President. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Recording Vice President

CANDIDATES FOR ALTERNATE DELEGATES TO THE AFM CONVENTION

No candidates announced

CANDIDATES FOR DELEGATES TO THE NYC CENTRAL LABOR COUNCIL

No candidates announced

CANDIDATES FOR DELEGATE TO THE NEW YORK STATE AFL-CIO

Martha Hyde (unopposed)

This candidate is also running for Executive Board and Delegate to the AFM Convention. Candidate’s photo and statement listed above under the category of Executive Board.

CANDIDATES FOR DELEGATE TO THE UNITED HEBREW TRADES*

 (*the United Hebrew Trades is the New York division of the Jewish Labor Committee)

No candidates announced

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