Allegro

‘Why we joined the union’

Volume 112, No. 6June, 2012


Eli Brueggemann

Andre Chez Lewis

Gary M. Garzetta

David Kaye

Kenny Weydener

Anthony Rubbo

I joined Local 802 after I recently moved to NYC from Los Angeles to become the musical director at “Saturday Night Live.” I came here primarily to help to make SNL a great show by supporting the writers and cast with the best original music and arrangements. Since the show shoots from September to May with many breaks, I also hope to produce, arrange, and work as a sideman in the NYC music scene. Recently, I also finished a couple tours playing keyboards with Mathew Morrison from “Glee,” and Hammond B3 with the legendary funk group Mandrill. As for the SNL gig, I came into contact with Lenny Pickett through the SNL band’s guitarist, Jared Sharpff, who I met back in 2002 on a gig in L.A. On the production side of things, I’ve been making music for film and TV for many years with Levels Music Group and producing/arranging records for singers in Los Angeles. My principal instruments are piano/keyboards and also Logic.

Eli Brueggemann

I joined the union after I became a Broadway musician. I was previously with AFM Local 125 (Norfolk, Virginia). I would like to continue with Broadway, become a conductor and eventually compose for a show. My most recent gig was subbing for second keyboard in “Memphis On Broadway.” My principal instrument is piano.

Andre Chez Lewis

I joined Local 802 to become part of the professional music circuit. My musical goal in New York City is to perform with orchestras, on Broadway, and in the big band and commercial scenes. I’ve already been lucky enough to do some subbing on Broadway; I got the gig through hard work and networking with the right people who have been extremely kind to me! My principal instrument is bass trombone.

Gary M. Garzetta

I joined local 802 because of the unparalleled opportunities, benefits and representation offered for music work in the New York area. My goal in New York is to have steady work by making my name as a dependable, versatile musician who can be relied upon for bringing something unique to the table. Currently I am subbing on guitar, pedal steel, banjo, dobro and mandolin on the Broadway production of “Bonnie and Clyde.” Local 802 member Gordon Titcomb, who has been a musical mentor to me, asked me to be his sub. I also am doing frequent session work and performing with my bluegrass group, the String Fingers Band.

David Kaye

I joined the union to network with the top musicians in New York City. I just released my third all-instrumental album, featuring virtuoso multiple basses and drums/percussion. My goal is to work with the best musicians that I can find, regardless of genre. I would like to become principal bassist in a Broadway musical, play recording sessions, compose for film and TV, and produce other artists. My primary instrument is electric bass. I sing backup vocals and can play intermediate-level guitar and drums/percussion. I am also a proficient Pro Tools engineer, an expert mix engineer and a drum programmer.

Kenny Weydener

I joined Local 802 because I began subbing on Broadway shows. My musical goals in New York City are to have a successful career as a performer, work hard, and be happy doing what I love each day. One of my most recent gigs was to sub for Jeff Campbell at “Mamma Mia!” on Broadway. I got it by e-mailing him and asking to watch his book. Eventually, he was nice enough to give me a chance and I am very grateful to him for that. My principal instrument is the guitar.

Anthony Rubbo

I joined Local 802 after learning about the union while I was at Juilliard, completing my doctoral studies in piano performance with Prof. Jerome Lowenthal. I decided to join since I was already actively immersed in the New York musical scene. My musical goal in New York City is to be heard and to leave a positive impact on as many lives as possible. One of my most recent gigs was performing at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. My principal instrument is piano. I play solo, orchestral and all chamber music combinations.

Edvinas Minkstimas