New York University is currently on the AFM International Unfair List for misclassifying individuals as independent contractors and failing to provide musicians with the fair wages and protections that they deserve.

The AFM has also placed Steve Trudell and Trudell Orchestras on the Unfair List at the request of 23 locals, including Local 802. The locals have a primary dispute with Trudell because he engages musicians within the locals’ service areas at rates of pay and under conditions that are substandard and therefore unacceptable. Trudell also refuses to provide pension and health contributions.

Joseph (Joe) McGinty and his Carousel Studios in Greenpoint, Brooklyn remain on the Unfair List due to McGinty’s engagement of musicians at rates of pay and under standards and conditions considered unfair and unacceptable in the industry. McGinty employed musicians for a live concert sponsored by Lincoln Center and NPR in Damrosch Park, paying them wages that are far below area standards and failing to uphold his obligation as an employer to pay state and federally mandated taxes and social security benefits.

Members are reminded that, pursuant to Article 8, Section 3 of the AFM Bylaws, members shall not render musical services for organizations, establishments, or people who are listed on the International Unfair List. The full list is at www.afm.org/for-members/international-unfair-list. Any members who are called to play with any of the employers listed above should contact Recording Vice President Andy Schwartz at (212) 245-4802, ext. 111. Members can also anonymously call the Local 802 hotline 24 hours a day at (212) 245-4802, ext. 260. Remember, when musicians stick together, we have power.