Allegro
Currently Browsing: 2013,
New Mayor, New Vision
President's Report
We have a new mayor here in NYC, and I’d like to thank all of the Local 802 members and staff who helped support Bill de Blasio. We were an early endorser of Bill’s campaign, and we did so because
We’re Getting Our Message Out
President's Report
Jazz is truly one of America’s gifts to world music. Many Local 802 members are jazz musicians and jazz is a critical part of the history of both Local 802 and New York City. Congress has even declared jazz to
Applause for Broadway Musicians
President's Report
I’d like to begin this month’s column with applause for Broadway musicians, who create so much theatrical magic that they were recognized at this year’s Tony awards. It goes without saying that Broadway wouldn’t be Broadway without live music. Congratulations
The Mystery of the Titanic Musicians’ Plaque
President's Report
This month, we’re pleased to present in Allegro a story that’s stranger than fiction. It’s the story of a bronze plaque that Local 802 commissioned over 100 years ago from a well-known artist. The plaque was created to honor the
Honoring Women’s History Month
President's Report
March is Women’s History Month and there are several features in this issue of Allegro that readers will find interesting, including an interview with Irene Breslaw on page 24. Ms. Breslaw will celebrate 37 years as Assistant Principal Violist with
Workers’ rights are a global fight
President's Report
As union musicians, we have to remember that the fight for workers’ rights is global. Last month, as most of us know by now, the world grieved for the 1,127 garment workers killed by criminal negligence in Bangladesh, in the
New York City Opera will always be a part of us
President's Report
This has been one of the hardest months in my time as a musician, as a union president and as a New Yorker. The fact that the New York City Opera will be missing from the cultural scene is something
Young and Old, We All Have Value
President's Report
In this issue we’re going to take a look at one of the most insidious forms of injustice for our musicians: age discrimination. When musicians aren’t hired because clients believe they’re “too old,” it really hurts. It’s especially painful because
Summer of Solidarity
President's Report
I hope that everyone had a great summer. You can see from the front page of the printed issue that the Local 802 Executive Board has endorsed Bill de Blasio for mayor of New York City. There are several reasons
Union Busting Affects Us All
President's Report
These days, It seems to be fashionable to bust unions. As many of you know, Michigan recently became the 24th so-called right-to-work state in this country. I say “so-called” because the label “right to work” was invented by union
Taking our campaign to a new level
President's Report
As you can see from our cover story, our Justice for Jazz Artists Campaign recently entered new territory. Up until now, we’ve confined our protests to the sites of the various jazz clubs. But due to limited response from the
Follow the Money
Recording Vice President's Report
A nightclub tells us that it’s not the employer at the same time that it’s holding the purse strings. What did the union do? We organized – and won! The nightclub “54 Below” had been open for several months when
Stronger Together
An exclusive interview with AFM President Ray Hair
This month, Allegro is honored to feature an interview with AFM President Ray Hair about hot topics in the recording industry. It’s immediately clear that President Hair is both a big picture person and a detail man. As part
Music to our ears
Why musicians, union members and all working people should support Bill de Blasio's campaign for mayor
The following is a transcript of Tino Gagliardi’s remarks on Aug. 12 in support of Bill de Blasio’s candidacy for mayor of New York City. The announcement event was held on the pedestrian plaza at the corner of Broadway and
Win money for music school
March 31 is the deadline to apply for this year’s Anne Walker Scholarship prizes. This is the 15th year that members of Local 802 and their children who are pursuing studies in music will have the opportunity to apply for
A call to music professors: open your door to us
Every year, large numbers of music students leave school with a limited understanding of what resources exist to help them further their careers. Union awareness is not always a part of a music education, and students often make it through
Learning from History
Recording Vice President's Report
When we think of Black History Month, it is impossible in this business not to think of the history of jazz and its creators and practitioners. From its origins in blues and spirituals in the southern United States and its
Copyright, activism, and making a living in the age of streaming
Future of Music Summit 2013
Now in its 12th year, the Future of Music Coalition recently convened its annual summit on the scenic Georgetown University campus in Washington, D.C. The two-day conference brought together people from all walks of the music industry for interviews, workshops
Why Pension Matters
Recording Vice President's Report
It has been said here before, but it bears repeating that the AFM pension remains perhaps the best benefit that our years of collective bargaining with employers offers. And in spite of the fact that the pension payout multiplier has
The rebirthing of New Orleans
Seven years after Hurricane Katrina, the state of jazz is very much alive
Each year, for our Jazz Appreciation Month issue, we ask Nanette Ledet, our correspondent in New Orleans, to give us her take on the state of jazz there. This year marks the seventh anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. As I began
‘The Grinch Who Stole Christmas’
Photo Op: Musicians in the studio
It sounds better when it’s union! Local 802 musicians recently recorded the soundtrack to “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” a live show that has previously appeared at Madison Square Garden. The session was done under a union contract, and the
Musicians come together!
Are you a musician who regularly plays gigs under Local 802’s single engagement contracts? Do you often take jobs that you would like to see covered by the union, including corporate events, restaurant gigs, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, clinics
Sick pay law and musicians: a Local 802 victory!
Legal Corner
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
I Love NYCO
Musicians from the New York City Opera share some cherished - and funny - memories of playing together
It was my greatest pleasure to play for Maestro George Manahan at New York City Opera. In his 14 years as music director, he developed our ensemble and taught us to trust his every move. He used to say that
One percent for culture
Artists and their supporters have a modest proposal for New York City...
How much do you think New York City spends on culture – including live music? Would it surprise you if you heard that the number was currently less than one percent? The actual number is 0.22 percent. But what if
We’re in it together: An open letter to our younger musicians
Financial Vice President's Report
If you’re a young musician, just arrived in New York City, you may wonder why you need the musicians’ union at all. You may believe that membership in Local 802 is for those lucky musicians who win seats on Broadway
Local 802 is financially stable and in good shape
Financial Vice-President's Report
In the printed issue are the audited financial report for the period Jan. 1, 2012 to Dec. 31, 2012. Members will note a modest increase in nearly every asset category. In the revenue category, work dues and basic dues are
Harry Belafonte endorses union’s jazz campaign
Harry Belafonte, one of the nation’s most prominent performers and social activists, has announced his endorsement of Local 802’s Justice for Jazz Artists campaign. Belafonte’s endorsement caps off a week which saw tremendous growth in support from notable figures
The case of the concert that went on…and on…and on
Legal Corner
The Brooklyn Philharmonic (pictured above at an outdoor concert last year) is being sued by composer Nathan Currier over its alleged failure to finish a 2004 performance of the composer’s piece “Gaian Variations” at Lincoln Center.
The money-go-round
Musicians, Big Tech and piracy
The fight against music piracy has often been a battle waged against regular people. “Don’t pirate!” we’re supposed to tell our kids. Yes, it’s absolutely true that individuals shouldn’t pirate music, but now we know that piracy is more than
Bed, Breakfast – and Live Music
Hotel musicians win a 9 percent raise in their new contract
Where can you enjoy a fantastic evening of live music in the classiest setting, while knowing that the musicians are covered by a union contract? The answer is New York City’s top hotels, which include the Carlyle, Pierre, Plaza, St.
Moving forward
New year offers challenges and opportunities for union musicians
Looking back on my first term in office as Recording Vice President, I am struck by how quickly time has passed and how much time it takes to accomplish goals the union has set for itself. The two greatest tasks
How will the sick pay law work for musicians?
Under the new sick pay law, workers will be entitled to up to five paid sick days a year, with the right to carry over unused earned sick days. Sick leave will accrue at the rate of one hour per
Help One, Help All
Why the union's jazz campaign is good for all of us
In the end of my block is a restaurant that features live music most nights of the week. The caliber of the musicianship is fine and the diversity of musical styles is exciting, ranging from reggae to country swing to
Membership Alert:
Important notice about Blue Cross hospitalization plan
A number of musicians have been alerted that the stand-alone Blue Cross hospitalization policy many have used to supplement the Local 802 major medical plan will be discontinued effective Jan. 1, 2014. The hospitalization-only policy is not compliant with the
Come Together
Annual meeting of the RMA-NY takes a close look at tax breaks that may encourage more soundtrack recordings in NYC
Recording musicians came together in late January when the New York chapter of the RMA held its annual meeting at Local 802. The featured topic of the night was New York state and city tax credits for film production and
New receipts system paints a clearer picture
Controller's Report
For the 12-month period ended Dec. 31, 2012, Local 802 realized a gain of $261,591. The union’s statement of activities (see page 39) is relatively consistent when comparing 2011 to 2012, with only a few notable changes. The most important
‘If you’re gray, you’re sent away’
Musicians speak out against age discrimination
This article from the February 2013 issue of Local 802's Allegro magazine...
Getting creative with new actions
They’ve played, marched, picketed and demonstrated, but recently, musicians and activists have taken the Justice for Jazz Artists campaign to some creative new places. On Oct. 25, jazz campaign supporters visited Blue Smoke, the upstairs barbeque restaurant that shares a
Musical awakening
Announcing an iPod drive on Broadway to bring the power of music to Alzheimer's patients
Last year I shared the story of my parent’s struggle with Alzheimer’s and so many of you responded with such generosity. Your iPod donations have brought such joy to those suffering from this horrible disease. As you might recall, I
Want to play percussion on Broadway?
Students learn the ropes from Local 802 musicians
Want to play percussion on Broadway? The New York University Percussion Studies Program, under the direction of Local 802 member Jonathan Haas, recently hosted the seventh annual Broadway Percussion Seminar and Summit, an event which brings together an array of
On the Move
Recording Vice-President's Report
The AFM gets serious about organizing – and what that means for our jazz campaign I was recently in Portland for the Western Conference of AFM Locals where Paul Frank, the AFM’s new director of organizing, conducted a full-day version
Your future is in your hands
Financial Vice President's Report
Sometimes you have to name names. In this article, I plan on revealing the names of several ensembles to whom we’ve reached out, but who have so far have ignored us. We think that both the musicians and the managers
The sound of justice
Guitar Center workers make their voices heard
If you want to hear what chaos sounds like, open the door of any Guitar Center music store. You’ll hear hundreds of customers at any given time plucking strings, slapping skins, or jamming on keys. But there is one sound
Jimmy Owens speaks out on Justice for Jazz Artists
It’s great to get our message out – especially to 100,000 listeners at once! Earlier this fall, National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master and longtime Local 802 member Jimmy Owens spoke before the regular Saturday morning rally of the
Contracts, anyone?
Financial Vice-President's Report
As another summer recedes into memory, I’d like to give you a few important updates in the classical field, and also throw out some topics that merit future discussion. The selection of items below is certainly not the gourmet’s tasting
You made it union
Musicians backing up Josh Groban win contract and benefits, thanks to an anonymous tip
Have you ever gone into a job that you assume to be union, only to find out at the last minute that there is no contract? That is exactly the situation members of Local 802 and Local 47 found themselves
Bringing it home
If the owners of the Blue Note won't come to us, we'll go to where they live...
See photos by Walter Karling below. On a recent spring evening, an intrepid group of activists and some of the most respected musicians in the world – including John Pizzarelli, Bob Cranshaw and Dr. Larry Ridley – came together on
Breaking the color line
African-American musicians and the formation of Local 802
In 1886, Walter Craig, a black violinist residing at 103 West 29th Street, quietly joined the otherwise all-white New York musicians’ union, the Musicians’ Mutual Protective Union (MMPU). Others followed. By 1910, about 300 black musicians had joined the MMPU,
Justice for Jazz Artists
Photo Spread
Justice for Jazz Artists coordinated another successful event on Nov. 6 at St. Peter’s Church. The “Battle of the Saxes” was designed to raise awareness around the challenges faced by older jazz musicians. The concert featured instrumental soloists Patience Higgins
No Music Zones?
City tries to tell musicians where they can and can't play
The art of street performance, or busking, is something many musicians have experienced at some point. New York City’s public parks have long played host to musicians of all stripes, whether they just came out for a chance to play
Broadway Bound
Kids learn the magic of live music at a summer theatre camp
Kids whose dream is to perform on Broadway have their own special camp every summer. Since 2010, Local 802 has hosted Inside Broadway’s Broadway Boot Camp. This year, the week-long camp – provided free of charge to the participants –
Positive Thinker
Bill de Blasio has high hopes and big plans
Bill de Blasio, the NYC public advocate, announced his candidacy for mayor earlier this year. Previously, he served as a City Council member, representing the 39th district in Brooklyn. Local 802’s political director K.C. Boyle recently sat down with de
A Violinist’s Voyage
Newton Mansfield talks about his musical journey, from Poland to Paris to the New York Philharmonic
Violinist Newton Mansfield was born in Poland. At age two, he and his family moved to Paris. “When I was about six,” Mansfield remembers, “neighbors of ours – two old ladies who were of the Austrian aristocracy and wore black
Musicians of the world, unite!
Photo Feature
Live music raises everyone’s union spirit. On May 1 (International Workers’ Day), musicians from Local 802 and the union’s Justice for Jazz Artists campaign marched in the labor community’s annual May Day Parade. Two ensembles performed: a ten-piece marching band
Why I love classical music
Recently, one of our board leaders commented to me, “I know you prefer playing classical music to pops.” I think he meant to demonstrate his sensitivity to the reluctance of orchestral musicians to play more and more pops shows, a
Summary annual report for Local 802 Musicians Health Fund
This is a summary of the annual report for LOCAL 802 MUSICIANS HEALTH FUND, EIN13-6198844, Plan Number 501, for the period October 1, 2011 to September 30, 2012. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as
Milestone for Women’s rights
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Roe vs. Wade, we realize that labels no longer fit
In 1916, Margaret Sanger opened the nation’s first family planning clinic in Brooklyn, and women lined up for birth control information. Within nine days, Sanger was jailed for her advocacy, but a movement for women’s health was born. Today, Planned
Bam! What was that sound?
Local 802 musicians reflect on what playing this awesome piece means to them
Part I: The Adoration of the Contractor The Augurs of the Gig Spring 2009: here I am, sitting on stage at Avery Fisher Hall, subbing with the great New York Philharmonic. Indeed a high honor. Without a doubt, one of
Passing it on
Jazz teaching conference is all about reaching the next generation
Jazz education lives! I recently hopped on a plane to Atlanta, accompanied by preeminent jazz bassist Bob Cranshaw, to attend the Jazz Education Network’s annual conference. Our mission, as mandated by the Organizing Department and the Executive Board, was to
Groove Masters
Music education is more than giving weekly lessons, teaching a theory class, or working with a high school band. It is about instilling passion, excitement, and wonder at the many genres and styles of music, and then nurturing the
They can’t stop Beethoven, can they?
For the grasping managers of corporate America – and the institutions their wealth dominates – no workers deserve dignity, not even the most amazingly accomplished. What do bank executives who make $19 million a year do in their spare time?
Bernard Purdie Gives Back
The master drummer and hit-maker is also a gifted educator
Ladies and gentlemen, what can I say about Bernard “Pretty” Purdie? He is a giant in the music industry and probably one of the most recorded drummers in history. He’s played and recorded with some the greatest artists that have
How will Obamacare affect you?
Question: Everyone’s talking about the Affordable Care Act, but how will “Obamacare” affect those in the arts and entertainment community? Answer: Affordable health insurance options should increase immensely over the next year. Did you know that: People who make $15,800/year
Telling it like it is
An interview with Julie Landsman
Julie Landsman found her dream job – and now she’s happy to pass along her hard-won knowledge to the next generation Julie Landsman, a member of Local 802 since 1972, is one of the most distinguished French hornists and teachers
It’s Earth Day: Tree huggers unite!
Earth Day is around the corner (it’s April 22) – and to the extent that any of us pay attention to it, it’s a pretty ho-hum thing if acknowledged at all. The first Earth Day was in 1970 and it’s
Show me the money!
The nuts and bolts of digital royalties
Have you ever wondered how royalties are paid out when music is played on Internet radio like Pandora? Thanks to digital performance laws, you may have some money waiting for you. First, let’s tackle the basics. There are actually many
Behind the curtain
Kids get a taste of the magic of Broadway, thanks to innovative program
When kids get to hear live music, something magical happens. Twice a year, Inside Broadway brings children from various New York public schools to a Broadway production where they are given a once-in-a-lifetime experience – a behind-the-scenes peek at the
‘Don’t mourn: Organize!’
Recording Vice-President's Report
Adversity is often our best teacher. The case can be made that this is true of the AFM, which has finally, facing falling membership numbers, picked up the mantle of organizing as a necessary approach to solving its growth problems
When orchestra boards fail us
Financial Vice-President's Report
Last month was musical hell. We lost the New York City Opera, and the situation in Minnesota got even worse, thanks to the sad departure of its music director, Osmo Vänskä. But the larger issue is how the media likes
The Majesty of Bach
On Bach's birthday, a virtuoso Baroque specialist remembers his personal journey with early music
This month marks the 328th anniversary of the birth of J.S. Bach, so we asked John Thiessen to contribute a personal essay on his relationship to Bach. Described by the New York Times as “the gold standard of Baroque trumpet
What Rosa Parks can teach us
As we celebrate Black History Month this year, we also celebrate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Rosa Parks, who was born on Feb. 4, 1913. On the night of Dec. 1, 1955, Rosa Parks boarded a bus in
When music could cause riots
Reflections on "The Rite of Spring" at 100
This month is the 100th anniversary of the first performance of Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring,” which took place in 1913 in Paris. The reports of that initial performance are part of music lore and we now ask, with some
Gambling with our future
Is supporting corporate casinos really in our interest?
If a referendum were put on the ballot to place a toxic waste dump in the middle of Manhattan, would the New York State AFL-CIO support it on the pretext that it would create union jobs? I doubt it. And
The Art of Teaching Music
IT’S PART OF THE GIG: Whether or not we planned for it, teaching eventually becomes a part of most musicians’ careers. We trained ourselves to play music, but how do we actually learn how to be good teachers? Allegro asked
Rock and Recycling
Guitar strings turn into art
I’ve always loved recycling. Call me weird, call me a typical Virgo, but ever since I was a little kid I’ve actually taken quite a bit of pleasure in sorting plastics from paper, glass from cans and bottle caps from
Titanic Mystery
Musicians & Heroes
“If you were performing on an ocean liner and suddenly the ship hit an iceberg and began to sink, would you keep playing? As many know, that’s the story of what the musicians on the Titanic did just over 101
Unearthed: Pandora executives cashing out millions in stock
At same time, lobbying to gut royalties to musicians
While Pandora continues to lobby lawmakers to slash royalty payments to thousands of musicians and labels, top company management at the Wall Street giant have cashed out company stock worth over $40 million since Pandora’s $235 million IPO in June
Sharing the gift
Ellen Bardekoff brings music to the next generation, with help from the MPF
The music scene is undergoing enormous change and its ripple effect can be felt in every area of the music industry. Live music is being put on the chopping block at an alarming rate for many reasons – lack of
Wasted Words
The failure of arts journalism at a time of cultural need
The first of October was a difficult day for the musicians of the Minnesota Orchestra, a day that marked the one-year point of the managerial-imposed lockout that has silenced an orchestra once called “the best in the world.” That morning,
A battle has many fronts
Opening up the union's jazz campaign to find new pressure points
Justice for Jazz Artists shook up the owners of the Jazz Standard in July and August by leafleting several key establishments owned and operated by the Union Square Hospitality Group. The company, which is headed by top New York-based restaurateur
Who wrote Bach’s music?
Were some of J. S. Bach’s compositions actually composed by his wife, Anna Magdalena? In this exclusive story for Allegro, Professor Martin Jarvis, from Charles Darwin University in Australia, shares with us the intriguing results of his research, just in
Always a surprising ride
Reflections on "The Rite of Spring" at 100
The Rite of Spring” is a composition that never loses its freshness or its avant-garde edge. I don’t find it dated in the slightest, in spite of the fact that it was written 100 years ago. My point of view
Speak truth to power
Lorraine Gordon, the owner of the Village Vanguard, still isn't returning our calls. So we paid her a visit on the night of her awards ceremony...
Members of Local 802 and the Justice for Jazz Artists campaign came together on Jan. 14 to leaflet the 2013 National Endowments for the Arts’ Jazz Masters Awards ceremony. The goal was to draw attention to an injustice being perpetuated
Shining a light
Working with blind musicians turns into a life-changing experience
This is a story about how working with young, blind musicians changed my life. These children were some of my favorite students of my career. They taught me more than I will ever be able to teach them. They were
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
Orchestra of St. Luke’s
Scenes of Summer
Orchestra of St. Luke’s is helping to sustain the next generation of live music lovers. Photographer Walter Karling captured the orchestra rehearsing at The DiMenna Center for the recent Link Up concerts presented by Carnegie Hall’s education program. Over a
AFM lobies against bill that would pay musicians less on internet radio
AFM press release
The AFM is pleased to announce that its lobbying efforts against H.R. 6480, the Internet Radio Fairness Act (IRFA), achieved positive results at a House Judiciary subcommittee hearing on the bill. The hearing by the Subcommittee on Intellectual Property, Competition
Lost and Found
Legal Corner
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
Cutting Edge
Musicians who play in top new theatre festivals are welcomed to Local 802
New York City has always been the best place to advance new art. Starting in the 1990s, the festival circuit here began to grow in many genres – film, music, dance and theatre. The New York Musical Theatre Festival –
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
WAGNER AT 200
Once you've played Wagner, you're never the same. In the following articles, Local 802 musicians reflect on what Wagner means to them, as we celebrate the great composer's 200th birthday this year.
A journey like no other
Reflections on "The Rite of Spring" at 100
My first performance of “The Rite of Spring” was in 2003 with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra under Maestro Valery Gergiev. Programmed along with “Le Rossignol (The Nightingale)” and the opera-oratorio “Oedipus Rex,” this Stravinsky triple-bill program was revived by the
Union effort continues to pay off
Winter Jazzfest musicians enjoy a second year of a hard-won union contract
This January marked the second year of the contract between Local 802 and the NYC Winter Jazzfest. The festival, now in its ninth year, showcases a wide variety of jazz artists over two days in several Greenwich Village venues. The
Drastic Measures
What happens when orchestra musicians believe that the answer to their troubles is to kick out the union?
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
On the Almanac Trail
Performing union songs across the heartland of America
A month later, it almost seems like it never happened. But for 32 days this summer, I hit the road with fellow AFM member Rik Palieri, singing for unions and union people at 23 concerts in 15 states. This self-organized
The Musician’s Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
Knickerbocker Chamber Orchestra
Scenes of Summer
The Knickerbocker Chamber Orchestra recently presented a stylish selection of waltzes, foxtrots and ballads at a free outdoor concert at the World Financial Center. Audience members kicked up their heels and danced to Johann Strauss, Irving Berlin and other great
A Conversation with Al Gallodoro (FULL VERSION)
A shorter version of this article first appeared on page 30 of the June 2013 issue of Allegro. To read the full interview with Al Gallodoro in his own words, scroll down to about the middle of this document.) Introduction
‘The artwork of the future’
Having had the opportunity to play Wagner’s operas at the Metropolitan Opera is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. My appreciation has only grown over the years, as I’ve been privileged to play most of this repertoire many times. On
Bringing it Home
Jazz master Lou Donaldson add soulful style to an evening focused on musicians' rights
Jazz musicians and fans gathered on Feb. 1 to express their enthusiasm, solidarity and support for Local 802’s Justice for Jazz Artists campaign. The panel, entitled “Coming Together as One: Fighting for Your Rights on the NYC Club Scene,” kicked
A Century of Swing
'Never lose your groove!'
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON FACEBOOK Viola Smith died at the age of 107 on Oct. 21, 2020. Please enjoy this tribute we published in 2013 when Ms. Smith was the spritely age of 101. [published in 2013] As the oldest
Playing the “Rite” in Mexico
Reflections on "The Rite of Spring" at 100
I wish I could say that I had the kind of musical career that gave me the opportunity to play “The Rite of Spring” numerous times with Great Orchestras under the batons of Great Conductors. Alas, that was not to
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
Taking Charge
Trumpeter Paul Cohen is still swinging at 91
In 1940, Paul Benjamin Cohen first joined Local 802. He had arrived. Now, more than seven decades later, Paul is still swinging. He recently celebrated his 91st birthday at a senior center in Margate, Florida, where he leads a weekly
Grace Under Fire
The rising star of Lakecia Benjamin
Lakecia Benjamin is a study in concentration. As she stands on a crowded stage, bobbing her head to the sounds of fellow saxophonist James Carter, she knows she’ll be called on momentarily to take her turn at the microphone. It’s
Reading, writing and rhythm
Creative teaching gigs now available for musicians and other artists
Do you want to use your music to enrich the lives of public school children – while getting paid? Here’s some news: the Actors Fund has come up with a very creative way for musicians and other artists to do
Take it or leave it?
In good news for musicians, labor board slaps Jacksonville Symphony management for bad faith bargaining
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
Riverside Symphony
Scenes of Summer
The Riverside Symphony is investing in the future of music education. For over 10 years, the symphony has produced a unique music curriculum that many teachers utilize. Students learn about 16 major music compositions, then come together for a fabulous
How much money will you get when you retire?
If you play union gigs, you can build up payments into your pension account at the AFM Pension Fund. But how much is this actually worth when you retire? Our pension fund offers an online service that will give you
Want to make more money on your gig?
Musicians increase their paychecks with a call to the union
To say that the past year has been brutal for orchestral musicians is a bit of an understatement. As you have certainly read by now, musicians in the U.S. and overseas have been beleaguered by unprecedented attacks from their managements.
Free health care?
Medicaid might be what you’re looking for – then again, it might not
We are headed into the year the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) rolls out its best known feature – the health insurance exchanges. These will be online marketplaces where folks without employer-sponsored health insurance will be able to buy individual policies
Musical ambassador
Irene Breslaw joined the viola section of the New York Philharmonic in August 1976. She was named assistant principal viola in 1989. Prior to joining the orchestra, Ms. Breslaw was a member of both the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and
Bronx Arts Ensemble
Photo Feature: Musicians at work
The Bronx Arts Ensemble has won the admiration of the music world with its high artistic standards, innovative programming and acclaimed recordings. The group presents 100 concerts annually that reach an audience of over 50,000. Musicians in the Bronx Arts
Are you ready for Medicare?
There is at least one perk to getting older: free health care. But how free is it? Five years ago, I gave an overview of Medicare in these pages. (See www.bitly.com/Medicare01). But since the rollout of the Affordable Care Act
Hidden History
Deep and poignant memories of New York City Opera
Hello from an old-time member of the New York City Opera Orchestra. When I heard that the opera was faced with bankruptcy, I just about cried. NYCO embedded the best years of my life. I auditioned and got into
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians' Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
Recording Musicians Association: The voice of recording musicians
Allegro has published a number of recent articles with by-lines featuring members of the RMA-NY Board. So who is the RMA, and what has it done for you lately? Founded locally in New York in 1969 and becoming a national
‘Dude, Where’s the melody?’
Legal Corner
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
One act down, four hours to go
Perspectives from the pit of Wagner's ring cycle
Performing Richard Wagner’s “Der Ring des Nibelungen” is a unique experience. Fanatics fly in from all over the world to settle into the Metropolitan opera house for nearly a week to hear “Das Rheingold,” “Die Walküre,” “Siegfried” and “Götterdämmerung.” Night
‘Mystifying instrument’
A new history of the bassoon is an essential text
James B. Kopp’s “The Bassoon” (Yale University Press) exemplifies the quality we have come to expect from the Yale Musical Instrument Series. As a comprehensive monograph about the instrument from its early precursors to its use in the modern orchestra,
Bankruptcy and You
If you declare Chapter 7, are your instruments protected?
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
Tax tips for musicians
Guest Commentary
Tax time is around the corner. There are many business and job expenses musicians must pay to keep current in the profession and continue their career. Deducting these expenses can lower your tax bill or increase a refund. Usually there
Christmas is in the air
Photo Spread
Radio City Music Hall is alive with the sound of Local 802 musicians performing the annual Christmas Spectacular show with the Rockettes. Musicians play up to six shows a day for nine weeks in this intense holiday gig. Pictured here
Executive Board Minutes
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Tuesday May 7, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:15 AM. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Cranshaw, Dougherty, Hyde, Schwartz, Sharman. Minutes from April 30, 2013 reviewed. It was moved
Memories of Dizzy Gillespie
Each Oct. 21, we honor the memory of legendary trumpeter John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie on his birthday. Below, jazz master Jimmy Owens gives us his reminiscences. It was always a pleasure and a learning experience when I was around Dizzy.
The Yellow Brick Road to Hell
A musician accepts a non-union tour of "The Wizard of Oz" and learns what exploitation is really like
The yellow brick road to hell started last year when I was forced through my financial circumstances to play drums and percussion on a non-union tour of “The Wizard of Oz.” The tour gave me an old-fashioned schooling on what
Ecuador offers ‘asylum’ to jazz artists
Letter from Quito
The government of Ecuador is known most recently for providing NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden with travel documents so he could get from Hong Kong to Moscow, and offering asylum to WikiLeaks mastermind Julian Assange. Before that, many citizens of North
I Love Opera
Explaining the appeal of the most enduring art form
Why does opera remain one of the most popular and enduring forms of classical music today? Why do some fans of opera travel the world to experience a new production of a work they may have seen a dozen times
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
The Power of Art
This year, we commemorate the 100th anniversary of three major events in labor history. Thanks to the power of art, we will not forget…
Take a trip with me in 1913 to Calumet, Michigan and the copper country…” are the opening lines of one of the most haunting, powerful and depressing songs in the Woody Guthrie catalogue: “1913 Massacre.” I learned the song from
More tax tips for musicians
Guest Commentary
Tax time is coming, but don’t be afraid. If you think that organizing your financial life is distasteful, just remind yourself that paying more in taxes than required by law is even more distasteful. The better you understand the process
A tribute to Marian McPartland
The grand matriarch of jazz piano, Marian McPartland, died on Aug. 20 at the age of 95. It was a sad if inevitable moment. Despite her advanced age, it was hard to imagine that Mrs. McPartland could actually die some
My Favorite New Year’s Eve Gig Story
New Year’s Eve gigs can be great, but they are also the stuff that legends are made of. We asked our musicians for their best (or worst!) New Year’s Eve gig stories. Here are some tales you don’t want
Career boost: trombonist picks up new skills and new gig
Local 802 member Joe Stanko was a successful freelance musician in NYC when he realized his career needed a little boost. He learned about the Actors Fund Work Program, which – despite its name – is not just for
The girls in the band
New film takes a serious look at women instrumentalists
They wiggled, they jiggled, they wore low-cut gowns and short shorts, they kowtowed to the club owners and smiled at the customers…and they did it all just to play the music they loved. “The Girls in the Band,” a new
Can a union offer free dues as an incentive?
Legal Corner
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
The man who never died
Joe Hill was one of the most important troubadours of the labor movement. A new book fills in many details of his rich life…
Pdf download: “THE PREACHER AND THE SLAVE” sheet music It was a funeral the likes of which Chicago had never seen. As early as dawn they began gathering, a great singing swarm of humanity, tens of thousands of the city’s
Buying an expensive instrument? Don’t try to avoid sales tax!
One of my clients bought a very expensive instrument from a store. The store, acting as agent for a private owner, wanted her to provide an out-of-state address where they could say the instrument was shipped to when she actually
We’ve lost a giant
Remembering the magic of Frank Wess
We’ve lost the great Frank Wess – known to many as “Magic” – a dear mentor, friend, and giant of music. Someone I have looked up to my entire musical life. A source of immeasurable inspiration and guidance, as
‘Why we joined the union’
Why did I join Local 802? I was asked at the last minute to sub for the sub for the Springfield Symphony’s holiday concert last winter, and there was absolutely no way I would have ever passed up the opportunity
Heart and Soul
Scenes of Winter
These musicians are at the top of their game. The Local 802 Senior Concert Orchestra recently presented a performance at Symphony Space, conducted by David Gilbert with violin soloist Shuai Shi. The orchestra is comprised of seasoned, experienced musicians, many
Think before you text!
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
‘Give me my copyright back!’
Legal Corner
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
Sousaphones
Poetry
I’m sitting in the chair next to Lester, the only other tuba in the high school band, who will be killed at the hands of his brother three years hence. The crime of the year, it’ll be all over
‘Twice the Work and Half the Pay’
Musicians put their heads together at a solidarity strategy summit
Artists unite! Earlier this fall, musicians and other workers gathered for a facilitated discussion at Judson Memorial Church, coordinated by the Musicians Solidarity Council, 99 Pickets and OWS Arts and Labor. The event, entitled “Twice the Work, Half the Pay:
ALL TAX TIPS FOR MUSICIANS
The following tax tips for musicians were published in the February 2012, February 2013 and March 2013 issues of Allegro, the magazine of the NYC musicians’ union (AFM Local 802). We post an updated article with current tax tips for
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 to do more union jobs and help support the music union community. My musical goal in NYC is to become involved with jazz, Latin jazz, big band and Broadway, and to record as much as possible.
The Seeker
Larry Mullins is Toby Dammit – and he never misses a signal
Larry Mullins (a/k/a Toby Dammit) is not your ordinary drummer. For over 20 years, he’s been playing with punk godfather Iggy Pop and he’s also played with everyone from Rufus Wainwright to Lydia Lunch. The best thing is that he’s
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
Can an audition pianist file for unemployment benefits?
It depends on whether you're an employee or an independent contractor. Luckily, the law's on your side...
Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to HsmLaborLaw@HarveyMarsAttorney.com. Harvey Mars’s previous articles in this series are archived at www.HarveyMarsAttorney.com. (Click on “Publications & Articles” from the top menu.) Nothing here or
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 after I returned to NYC for the first time since my student years at Juilliard. I would like to network with as many musicians as I can. My musical goal in NYC is to perform chamber
Executive Board Minutes
September 17, 2013 - October 8, 2013
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:07 AM. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Burridge, Cranshaw, Cutler, Dougherty, Kruvand, Schwartz, Sharman, Assistant to the President Boyle. Minutes from
Big Apple Circus
Scenes of Winter
When the Big Apple Circus comes to town, music director Rob Slowik and his ensemble perform under a Local 802 union contract. It’s showtime! Photos by Walter Karling.
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 because of a recommendation from a wonderful Broadway player. I know that the union will be a great place to interact with other musicians in all playing areas. I left a successful career as a
Executive Board Minutes
July 16, 2013 - September 10, 2013
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on the following dates: July 23, Aug. 20 and Sept. 3. Tuesday, July 16, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:05 AM by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor,
A tribute to Charlie Parker
Charlie Parker would have turned 93 this past Aug. 29, and here are a few words as a birthday tribute. Charlie Parker told Max Roach, who told Cecil Bridgewater, who told me (and I’m paraphrasing here) that your instrument should
‘Orphan works’ deserve home
If a copyright holder can't be found, the original creators should have options
The AFM and the Recording Academy, together representing more than 100,000 performers, songwriters and record producers, filed joint comments with the Copyright Office on the topic of “orphan works,” as the federal office determines its policy recommendations to Congress. Orphan
Know Your Rights!
Are you playing a Broadway or Off Broadway show where the smoke and fog effects are making you sick? Or is the music too loud, leaving your ears ringing?
In 1999, Local 802 measured sound levels at 14 Broadway shows. The results showed that orchestra pits were louder than levels recommended by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health over 75 percent of the time. Smoke and fog
Minor decrease does not indicate any long-term issues
Financial Vice President's Report
Local 802’s audited financial statements for the first six months of 2013 appear in the printed issue of Allegro. These statements are not designed to track Local 802’s actual budget, but instead form a snapshot. This particular snapshot shows modest
New York Grand Opera
Scenes of Winter
The cold winter night was heated up by Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly,” performed by the New York Grand Opera and conducted by Vincent La Selva at the Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew on the Upper West Side. It was
Executive Board Minutes
June 11, 2013 - July 9,2013
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Tuesday, July 2, 2013 TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:07 a.m. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Burridge, Cutler, Dougherty,
The Mamboniks
A true American story of the Jewish love affair with Latin music
Sitting down in a Boston deli one day in 1959, Irving Fields faced a puzzling problem. A pianist and composer who loved Latin music, Fields had just finished recording a new album, and he needed a title. His record was
How to stop singing the winter blues
Musicians' Assistance Program
New York City is known for having an extreme climate. We have hot, humid summers and cold, blistery winters, with a few sunny and mild days of spring and fall in between. Even though New Yorkers are known for being
Remembering Al
Sax legend Al Gallodoro would have turned 100 on June 20. A recently uncovered interview sheds some new light on the master performer… What can you say to someone who has never heard Al Gallodoro? Beauty of tone, never sacrificed
Play ball!
The Local 802 softball teams played their hearts out this season. As usual, we competed in the Performing Arts Softball League, which is a 12-team league composed exclusively of Broadway unions and other entertainment professionals in New York City. To
SPECIAL OFFER FOR JAZZ MUSICIANS: FUNDING OPPORTUNITY!
Local 802 and the Music Performance Trust Fund are pleased to announce a special offer in honor of Jazz Appreciation Month. If you qualify, the fund will contribute 50 percent of the cost of your gig. But you must apply.
Explaining our slight loss in first six months
Controller's Report
As Financial Vice President Tom Olcott writes in his column, the union experienced a financial decrease in the first half of 2013. Fortunately, it was extremely minor. For the six-month period from Jan. 1, 2013 to June 30, 2013, Local
The Musicians’ Voice
The Musicians’ Voice is an open forum for discussion about the state of union affairs. The letters here do not necessarily express the views of Local 802. E-mail letters to Allegro@Local802afm.org or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th
‘The Grinch’
Scenes of Winter
What would Christmas be without the Grinch? The production moved from Broadway to Madison Square Garden this year and enjoyed a successful run under a union contract. Photos by Greg Landes and Cathy Venable.
Your mind needs practice, too
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
November ’13
The Band Room
Linda Novis sent me this story that was told to her by her late father, Frank Pomerantz, who worked in New York advertising for over forty years. A colleague, Ken Silverbush at Hi-Fi Stereo magazine, told him that one day
How does health insurance treat women?
Updated for 2013
For women, It is good to know what health programs you can take advantage of. In recognition of Women’s History Month, here is a brief tour of what women should know about health protections and the law. The Newborns’ and
‘In my solitude’
On and off the road with Bob Magnuson
From time to time, Allegro publishes interviews and personal essays from our members. Below, Bob Magnuson remembers how a lifetime of music sprang from his early days and how he has used technology to stay ahead in the field. Bob
The unstoppable Steve Knight
Reminiscences
Steve Knight (1935-2013) once gave me a real-life horror story resembling the bad dreams that sometimes plague musicians. He got a call to play the oud, and electric and acoustic guitars, for a three-week run with the Alvin Ailey Dance
Happy holidays? Not always
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
A virtuoso and a gentleman
Without a doubt, Al Gallodoro, who would have turned 100 on June 20, will be remembered as a woodwind phenomenon and a virtuoso on alto sax, bass clarinet and clarinet. For countless musicians he set a standard so high, it
The Solfege war
Fixed do or movable do?
I was 14 years old, and my dad was taking me to a party in New York City. We lived an hour north of the city but I went there with my parents often, as my father was a native
‘Why we joined the union’
I’ve been making a living in music since I was a teenager as a theatrical pianist and music director. Recently, I played the holiday job at the Gateway Playhouse, a gig I originally got from a cold call while I
December ’13
The Band Room
In 1955, Lee Konitz and Warne Marsh recorded an experiment with time displacement, playing the last chorus of the bebop standard “Donna Lee” starting one beat early and keeping it there while the rhythm section stayed with the original placement.
Reading, writing and rhythm
Creative teaching gigs are now available for musicians and other artists
Do you want to use your music to enrich the lives of public school children – while getting paid? Here’s some news: the Actors Fund has come up with a very creative way for musicians and other artists to do
October ’13
The media has been filled lately with tributes to Marian McPartland, who passed away on Aug. 20 at the age of 95. Marian was a dear friend, who gave me my first steady job in New York in 1954
In memory of Maestro
The daughter of Emilio de los Reyes remembers her father
My father, Emilio de los Reyes (1920-1987), was a well-known and popular orchestra leader. This year was the 26th anniversary of his death and I’m grateful for the chance to share these reminiscences with readers of Allegro. Former Local 802
‘Be your own self’
A tribute to Carline Ray's musical life
The life of Carline Ray (1925-2013), the champion of bass, was as rich and deep as her luxuriant contralto voice. A professional singer and electric bass specialist for 54 years, Ray was an activist as well as a premier musician.
The team player
At 83, pianist and composer Howard Williams is still getting musicians to sound their best
Most musicians in the business stay in it because they love it. Our own Howard Williams, who has worked at Local 802 since 1991, has kept his love for music alive by assembling his own jazz orchestra. Described as a
The Double Life of Billy Tipton
Jazz musician was born a woman but spent career passing as a man
One Saturday morning in January 1989, an emergency call summoned paramedics to a trailer park on the outskirts of Spokane, Washington, the home of Billy Tipton, an aging white jazz musician. Tipton had been very ill, too weak to leave
Executive Board Minutes
February 26, 2013 - March 26, 2013
Tuesday February 26, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:11AM. Present: President Gagliardi, Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Cranshaw, Cutler, Hyde, Kruvand, Schwartz, Sharman. It was moved and seconded to approve the minutes from
My father, the drummer
My father, the drummer Vincent Ocharsky (also known as Vinnie Owens), died on Jan. 26 at the age of 89. He had been a Local 802 member since 1942. My dad had a typical childhood, growing up in the Lower
Remembering my mom
My mother, Carline Ray, passed away on July 18 at the age of 88. She was a longstanding member of Local 802 and the union meant so much to her. I hope you enjoy the stories about her life elsewhere
Playing music may lower your blood pressure
Want to lower your blood pressure? Pick up a musical instrument. That’s the implication of a pilot study from the Netherlands, which suggests playing music is beneficial to one’s cardiovascular system. “Our study suggests that active music making has some
‘Why we joined the union’
I began singing at the age of 16. My earliest influences were Sarah Vaughan, Morgana King, Ella Fitzgerald, Barbra Streisand, Nina Simone and Laura Nyro. Throughout the years, I’ve performed at Dangerfield’s in NY, the Clef Club in Philadelphia, Chaplin’s
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 initially because I was producing a few records that were union sessions. These days I’ve been on a Broadway job. My musical goal in NYC is to continue to write, record, produce and perform music as
‘Why we joined the union’
Since the start of my career as a player and composer, the goal of my music has always been to communicate with people. Like African griots, I want to tell people things they need to know. I also want to
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 because I am a staff composer at a music production company called Mophonics Music & Sound, which specializes in original music for television and film. A lot of the jobs I compose music for are union.
Executive Board Minutes
September 25, 2012 - October 16, 2012
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Sept. 18 or Oct. 2. Tuesday, September 25, 2012 Meeting called to order at 11:17 AM. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Burridge, Cranshaw,
Executive Board Minutes
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Tuesday, May 14, 2013. Tuesday May 21, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:37 AM by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Cranshaw, Dougherty,
Executive Board Minutes
October 23, 2012 - November 13, 2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012 Meeting called to order at 11:08 AM. Present: Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Burridge, Cranshaw, Dougherty, Hyde, Schwartz, Sharman, Assistant to the President Boyle. President Gagliardi excused on union business. It was
The arts aren’t red or blue
Guest Commentary
Every four years America gets another chance to make its voice heard. And every four years the American arts community, in a way, gets a bit of a fiscal makeover. How is that? Well, it has to do with how
‘Why we joined the union’
I rejoined Local 802 soon after moving to New York from Chicago last year. I began performing in a Broadway show and knew that I needed to be in the AFM. My musical goal is to continue to sub and
Can Facebook get you gigs?
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
Trial Board Minutes
Report of the Local 802 Trial Board meeting held on morning of Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 12:00 PM Trial Board members Tony Gorruso, Marilyn Reynolds, Mary Whitaker, Roger Blanc (Chair), Steve Shulman (Secretary); Plaintiffs Walter Schweikardt, Frank Basile; Plaintiff
Contractor’s checklist
The following is a list of tasks that a contractor is required to complete for all electronic media sessions. If a contractor is not required on the session by the terms of the specific collective bargaining agreement, the leader is
Executive Board Minutes
January 15, 2013 - February 19, 2013
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Feb. 5. Tuesday, January 15, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:16 AM. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Burridge, Cranshaw, Dougherty, Hyde,
Release tension and perform better
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
January ’13
The Band Room
Jack Tracy sent me a couple of musical puns a while ago, and I just rediscovered them at the bottom of my computer file: King Ozymandias of Assyria was running low on cash after years of war with the Hittites.
‘Why we joined the union’
I joined Local 802 in order to belong to a larger body than myself, one of like-minded professionals working for the greater good of all musicians, locally and internationally. My musical goals are to perform, educate and work on Broadway
The Band Room
September '13
When Local 802 bought its own building in 1992, there was a rubble-strewn vacant lot adjoining it to the east that ran through to 47th Street. The property belonged to the Salvation Army, which eventually used the 47th Street end
Mental health and racism
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
Executive Board Minutes
November 20, 2012 - January 8, 2013
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Dec. 18, Dec. 25 or Jan. 1. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2012 Meeting called to order at 2:05 PM. Present: President Gagliardi, Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members
Executive Board Minutes
April 2, 2013 - April 30, 2013
Tuesday April 2, 2013 Meeting called to order at 11:07 AM by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Olcott, Recording Vice President O’Connor, Executive Board members Brandford, Cranshaw, Cutler, Dougherty, Hyde, Schwartz, Sharman, Assistant to the President Boyle. It was moved
Thanks for the memories, Local 802
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, food stamps and
Hello! How can we help you?
Musicians' Assistance Program
The office of the Musicians’ Assistance Program is your one-stop shop for musicians’ health. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing, food stamps
The Band Room
February '13
Jim Young in Baltimore posted this one on the Web: For anyone who thinks Thelonious Monk was unable to play any style but his own, Leslie Gourse relates this story in her 1997 biography of Monk, “Straight No Chaser”: “Unknown
Going global
How I used the international scene to make new connections
One morning this past April, I drew back the curtains, adjusted to the light, and found myself gawking at Big Ben gleaming across the river Thames! “How did I get here?” I wondered. It all began when, as a 17-year-old
THE “RITE OF SPRING” ESSAYS
Reflections of "The Rite of Spring" at 100
On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring,” we solicited anecdotes and reminiscences from Local 802 musicians about what playing this awesome piece means to them. Here are their stories: Bam! What Was That Sound?
Happy birthday, Bob!
Photo Feature
Master bassist and union activist Bob Cranshaw recently celebrated his 80th birthday at Local 802. Friends and fellow musicians partied, paid tribute and jammed. All right! Photos by Kate Glicksberg
Is your information correct?
The 2014-2015 Local 802 directory will be compiled at the end of this year. Thousands of musicians receive a copy of this book and use it as a vital resource. Here’s how to check to make sure your information will