As a tenor trombone player, I have toured internationally with the Monkees and regionally with This Ambitious Orchestra. In addition to several national television appearances, I play principal trombone with the Astoria Symphony Orchestra. I have appeared on stage with artists as diverse as David Amram and Hootie and the Blowfish, among many others. Although proud of my achievements, I have decided that the life of a freelance artist is best found in the pits – not of despair but on Broadway.

– Gregory Briggler

Although I am now primarily involved in music education, I rejoined Local 802 because I support its efforts to work for the best interest of professional musicians. I first joined 802 as a teenager in 1969, and through the years had the opportunity to do gigs that were protected under a collective bargaining agreement. I know first hand that it does make a difference. As an active member of New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), I believe in the power of organization and I believe it’s important for musicians to organize so that their futures can be more secure.

– Lorenzo Wyche