MEET OUR MEMBERS: We’re giving shouts out to our members who recently joined (or re-joined) the union! Today say hello to cellist Nioka Workman, who re-joined Local 802 last year when she was working on the Broadway show “Once Upon a One More Time.”

Nioka tells us, “The union has always assisted me with resources and negotiations — particularly with recording and television. I am looking forward to advice, access to health care and networking.”

She adds, “I come from a family of musicians and actors. Music is my life. Jazz and international art in my DNA. I appreciate the opportunity to share music and fellowship with new audiences here and abroad.”

Besides Broadway, Nioka’s recent highlights include a tribute to Paul McCartney at Carnegie Hall, working with Steve Jordan as music director, a feature with Black Rock Coalition Orchestra and collaborations with Def Poetry Jam CEO Danny Simmons, Wordsmith & Kayo.

Her arrangement of the title track for the album “Blackbirds” by @bettyelavette was nominated for a Grammy. She’s also recorded with Steve Coleman, Greg Osby, India Arie, DJ Rogers and Joe, among many others.

She’s been heard at the Sons’d Hiver Festival in Paris, Summer Stage at the Billie Holiday Theatre, International African Arts Festival, Montreal Jazz Festival, the Greater Hartford Jazz Festival, Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, and many more.

She actively curates and arranges music for events through Firey Strings Company, which recently released the album “That’s What She Said” and won a South Arts Jazz Roads Tour Grant.

Welcome back to the union, Nioka! New members can join Local 802 with NO INITIATION FEE between now and Dec. 31, 2024. Join at www.local802afm.org/join