Allegro

Currently Browsing: 2018,

President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
There’s lots of news to share this month. First of all, we are in full swing in our negotiations with the Metropolitan Opera and will keep you posted. Separately, I’m pleased to announce that Local 802 has reached an agreement

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
It was just over a year ago – on Jan. 20, 2017 – that Donald Trump was inaugurated as the 45th president of the United States. Many of us have taken part in protests over the past 12 months about

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
As you can see from our cover story, we’re pleased to feature the Roxy Coss Quintet, who are the winners of our inaugural Emerging Artists Project grant. This groundbreaking four-year award was designed to support emerging ensembles in New York

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
As 2018 comes to a close, it’s a good time to reflect on Local 802’s accomplishments and challenges this past year. In 2018, we awarded our first Emerging Artists Project grant to the Roxy Coss Quintet. The EAP is a

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
In mid-October, Local 802 became aware that the Manhattan Symphonie was hiring musicians to appear throughout a three-hour broadcast of “Fox and Friends.” Fox is not a signatory to the AFM Basic Cable agreement. No agreement was filed for this

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
April is Jazz Appreciation Month, and jazz is a critical part of the history of both Local 802 and New York City. Jazz is truly one of America’s gifts to world music and Congress has even declared jazz to be

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
This report is a longer version of my column in this month’s International Musician. It includes that column, since I do not know if all of our local’s members read the International Musician, but I have expanded it to include

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
March is Women’s History Month, which has its roots in the textile industry, where women historically endured terrible working conditions. It’s the month when we remember the 146 victims of the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire, the largest industrial disaster in the

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
Congratulations to all of the Local 802 members who work on musicals that won a Tony this year, including “The Band’s Visit” (which won Best Musical) and “Once on This Island” (which won Best Revival). Let’s give a special shout-out

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Local 802’s election of officers, Trial Board members, delegates and alternate delegates will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018, for a term of office beginning January 1, 2019. The offices open for election are: President, Financial Vice-President, Recording Vice-President,

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
I  hope everyone had a relaxing summer. For me, there was lots of union activity on the front burner. Here’s just a sample of what we accomplished in the past few months: The summer started with a low blow when

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John Painting
The Local 802 Electronic Media Services Department recently won a grievance with NBC for back residual wages owed to musicians who performed on the first-run syndication talk show “Harry,” totaling over $760,000. The grievance, which covered unpaid domestic residuals from

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Pianist Joanne Brackeen, a member of Local 802 since 1966, has earned the prestigious NEA Jazz Master designation this year. Whatever the musical setting – whether solo, duo, trio, quartet, or quintet – Brackeen’s unique style of playing commands attention.

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The following essay was submitted anonymously by a member of Local 802: I want to support Camille Thurman for coming forward and speaking her truth in the December issue of Allegro, and I would like to add my voice to

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E-mail letters to Allegro Editor Mikael Elsila or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10036. Letters must be no more than 300 words. RE: JAMES LEVINE The e-mail sent out regarding James Levine’s suspension

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NYC has bright lights to offer hope to artists and other workers
Tom Olcott
I’m sure I am not alone when I report that the relentless bluster and bumbling incompetence – plus a healthy dose of malevolence – emanating daily, even hourly at times, from Washington, D.C. leaves me frequently exhausted and a bit

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Join us on Sept 12 to learn about the union's media contracts
John Painting
If you were called for a recording session, would you know how much you should be paid? How about if you wanted to produce an album – do you know what options exist to fit your budget? Do you know

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President's Report
Tino Gagliardi
It’s already shaping up to be a busy fall season at Local 802 and there’s lots to report this month. First of all, as most of you know by now, Local 802 and AGMA announced the details of an agreement

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All LS-1 contracts must be submitted by July 15, 2018 for the benefit period that begins September 1, 2018. Only teaching (private and institutional) and/or solo, live engagements performed between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2018 can be reported on

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The queen of soul, Aretha Franklin, died on Aug. 16 at the age of 76. She had been a member of Local 802 for almost 25 years, in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. Ms. Franklin was one of the best-selling

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As negotiations approach, all classical musicians are invited to a forum on May 9 at Local 802
Tom Olcott
For classical orchestral musicians with long memories, 1986 stands as a pivotal year in our history. That year, we went out on strike against the coalition of orchestras, then identified as OMNY, which were signatories to the umbrella collective bargaining

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Controller's Report
Cathy Camiolo
For the six-month period ended June 30, 2018, Local 802 realized a loss of $247,340. The audited financial statements for the six-month period appear in the printed issue of Allegro on page 41. Most items on the Statement of Activities

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Congratulations to (clockwise, from top-left) Cole Davis, Zaq Davis, Lynnea Harding and Evan Pillow, each of whom won a $1,500 Anne Walker Scholarship award from Local 802 to attend music school. The deadline for next year’s contest is May 1,

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Electronic Music Committee
The Electronic Music Committee was formed as a think tank to collect data and start a meaningful conversation about the usage of electronics on Broadway. The EMC consists of industry professionals representing a wide cross section of the Broadway community,

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Our elected officials sound off about their musical tastes, the music in their district…and what instrument they wish they played! CARLINA RIVERA Councilmember Carlina Rivera is a Democrat representing District 2, comprising the neighborhoods of the East Village, Gramercy Park,

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ALL LS-1 CONTRACTS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY JAN. 15, 2018 FOR THE BENEFIT PERIOD THAT BEGINS MARCH 11, 2018 Only teaching (private and institutional) and/or solo, live engagements performed between July 1 and December 31, 2017 can be reported on

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Our elected officials sound off about their musical tastes, the music in their district…and what instrument they wish they played! RUBEN DIAZ JR. Ruben Diaz Jr. is serving his third term as Bronx Borough President, during which time he has

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Martha Hyde
As some of you know, Local 802 devoted its June 6 membership meeting to the opioid crisis in our society, which affects musicians as well as many others. I recently attended an International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP) conference

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MARCHING TOGETHER: Local 802 officers, members, staff and supporters came out in force for the NYC Central Labor Council’s annual Labor Day Parade, featuring live music from Local 802 members. A new Gallup poll shows 62 percent of Americans approve

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Financial Vice President's Report
Tom Olcott
One of my duties as financial vice president is to assist in the production of the annual audit of the local’s finances and to report the results to the membership. The latest audit was recently completed and reviewed by our

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Meet the Roxy Coss Quintet, winners of Local 802's first $40K Emerging Artists Project grant
The Roxy Coss Quintet is the winner of Local 802’s inaugural Emerging Artists Project grant. This groundbreaking four-year award was designed to support emerging ensembles in New York City as well as further efforts to ensure that all professional musicians

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Financial Vice President's Report
Tom Olcott
The U.S. midterms gave New Yorkers a dash of hope as we look forward to the new year. Now it’s up to us… After absorbing the results of this year’s U.S. midterm elections, one thing should be transparently clear: whenever

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Financial Vice President's Report
Tom Olcott
Contract negotiations and standing up for the arts are part of a larger struggle for our nation’s soul What do we stand for, as musicians, union members and citizens of the world? That’s the big question I want to tackle,

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Don't forget to vote on September 13th
Chris Carroll
Visit nyc.pollsitelocator.com to find your polling location and a sample ballot. As many musicians and New Yorkers have seen in recent years, all politics is local and one of the best ways to impact our lives and careers is through

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Financial Vice President's Report
Tom Olcott
As we continue negotiating with the New York Pops, the ASO, St. Luke’s, the ACO, and others, both our employers and Local 802 are facing three main challenges Most musicians in the concert field are aware that many of our

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Bandleader signs a union contract with Local 802: musicians will enjoy protections, benefits and more
Almost a year ago, the Organizing Department received a call from an enthusiastic Local 802 member who wanted to see how he could get the work of his ensemble covered by an 802 contract. That member was Steven Behnke, and

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Controller's Report
Cathy Camiolo
For the 12-month period ended December 31, 2017, Local 802 realized a loss of $163,280. The audited financial statements for the 12-month period appear in the printed issue of Allegro on page 35. The Statement of Activities showed an increase

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The Women’s March on NYC brought together musicians, activists and New Yorkers of all kinds. Below are the thoughts of several Local 802 members about why they marched… We marched for women and all people. We marched for a more

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We’re thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter in the lives of part-time jazz instructors at the New School. Stewards have stepped up in new and courageous ways and are looking to build an ever-stronger presence for the benefit of

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What does this mean for musicians and how can you sign up?
Renata Marinaro
Do you need health insurance, but don’t have enough union health contributions to get on one of Local 802’s health plans? If so, we’d like to remind you that the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) is still active and can be

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Dave Fallo
As I sat in heavy traffic on my way home from work this past Friday, unconsciously feathering the clutch in my car as I crawled up the FDR at six miles an hour (I’m one of the last holdouts in

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Joseph (Joe) McGinty has been placed on the AFM International Unfair List at the request of Local 802 due to his engagement of musicians at rates of pay and under standards and conditions considered unfair and unacceptable in the industry. 

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Steven Behnke
Horn player and Local 802 member Steven Behnke recently signed an agreement that provides union wages and benefits to his musicians in the Patriot Brass Ensemble (see story). Below, Behnke explains why he did it. There is no more affordable

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Jazz Mentors Student Jam
Jazz Mentors held another highly successful and well-attended student jam session on May 22. Students attended from various jazz programs, including Fiorello LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts, SUNY Purchase, the Kaufman Center and NJPAC. The house trio, led

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Laura Penn and Joe Hartnett
As Local 802’s Broadway negotiations approach, here’s how one organization is strengthening the position of Broadway’s unions and guilds The Coalition of Broadway Unions and Guilds began after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. During this dark time for

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Legal Corner
Harvey Mars, Esq.
Two recent cases involve disparities between pay for men and women – even under a union contract Under a union contract, every musician is guaranteed at least minimum scale. However, employers are always free to pay musicians more than scale.

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Celebrating Hispanic History Month
As Allegro went to press, the Broadway League was set to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a free outdoor celebration in Duffy Square under the banner of VIVA BROADWAY. The show was scheduled to be hosted by singer, actress and

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Musicians at Work
Each time a Broadway show goes up, it also records a soundtrack under a union contract. Allegro photographer Walter Karling got access to the recent cast album recording session of “Mean Girls” at the Power Station, which was contracted by

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Oganizing Matters
Joy Winkler is the director of organizing and field services. If you’re playing a job that you would like to be covered under a union contract, contact Joy at (212) 245-4802, ext. 157. You can also call the Local 802

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Welcome to the third in a series of articles from the Communications Subcommittee of the Local 802 Executive Board (Bud Burridge, Sara Cutler, Martha Hyde and Wende Namkung). Our mission is to expand direct communication between musicians and their representatives

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RODNEYSE BICHOTTE Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte is a Democrat representing District 42, which includes the communities of Ditmas Park and Flatbush in Brooklyn. First elected in 2013, Assemblymember Bichotte is the first Haitian-American woman elected to office in New York City

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Five useful concepts for a more diverse and inclusive orchestra
Almost 25 years ago, more than 100 leaders from every facet of the field put forth a bold vision: An American orchestra should be “responsive to and inclusive of its community” and “representative of the cultural and racial diversity of

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Sara Cutler
Local 802 is very pleased to report that the Emerging Artists Project continues to move toward selecting our first awardee. The jurors have finished their work rating 52 groups of musicians who perform all styles of music. The level of

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Women face real discrimination in the music world related to both gender and age. It’s time to change that. But first, we have to admit that the problem exists. In 1930, Harpist Edna Phillips made history when she became the

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A Musical Salute to a Civil Rights Hero
Music can help us remember our deepest history. Drawing from a story that’s both painful and inspiring, Local 802 member Uri Caine has written an oratorio that celebrates the life of civil rights hero Octavius Catto (1839-1871) – and has

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Our elected officials sound off about their musical tastes, the music in their district…and what instrument they wish they played! JUSTIN BRANNAN Elected to his first term in 2017, Justin Brannan serves as City Councilmember for District 43, encompassing the

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Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Labor and our Allies
Jerame Davis
In 28 states you can be fired for being gay, lesbian or bisexual. In 30, you can be fired for being transgender. And in states and jurisdictions that do have laws protecting LGBTQ people from discrimination, you would need the

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Musicians at Work
Local 802 musicians performed an incredible live broadcast of “Jesus Christ Superstar” on NBC on April 1 (Easter Sunday) at the Marcy Armory in Williamsburg, starring John Legend, Alice Cooper, Sara Bareilles, Brandon Victor Dixon, Norm Lewis, Ben Daniels, Jason

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Our elected officials sound off about their musical tastes, the music in their district…and what instrument they wish they played! RAFAEL ESPINAL Councilmember Rafael Espinal represents District 37 in Brooklyn, comprising the neighborhoods of Cypress Hills, Bushwick, City Line, Ocean

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The following bylaw amendment will be proposed and voted on at the Membership Meeting on June 6th at 5:00pm in the Local 802 Club Room: CURRENT LANGUAGE: Article III, section 5: (a)…A further portion of the amount thus collected by

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Music & Politics
Chris Carroll
The last 18 months will be remembered for many things in Washington. President Trump’s social media habits, constant turnover in the West Wing and Cabinet, Robert Mueller’s investigation, the questionable ethics of administration officials, fighting with the G-7 allies, tariffs

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What we learned at this year's Labor Notes Conference and how it gave us hope for the future of the labor movement
Contrary to some rumors, unions and the labor movement are very much alive and kicking in 2018. An exciting degree of energy among union leadership, organizers and member activists was on full display at the Labor Notes conference in Chicago

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The Local 802 softball teams played their hearts out this season. As usual, we competed in the Performing Arts Softball League, a 12-team league composed exclusively of Broadway unions and other entertainment professionals in New York City. To get information

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Legal Corner
Harvey Mars, Esq.
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

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Steven Cuevas
The Diversity Committee of Local 802 was recently formed and I have the honor of being its chair. In a union that represents all types of musicians, the committee is devoted to support the already diverse membership of Local 802

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For part of our promotion of the Jazz Mentors Student Jam, Local 802 allowed me to take over its Instagram feed. For 24 hours, I was able to log into the union’s account and take people on a journey throughout

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Local 802's record of standing up against racism
Jacob Goldberg
As we celebrate Black History Month this year, we gain insights – and perhaps some inspiration – from the union’s history. In 1939, Marian Anderson, one of the great opera singers of her decade, attempted to stage a concert at

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Member to Member
Marvin Moschel
Like millions of other American workers, I am horrified by the tax law passed by the Republicans and I hope we can elect a Democratic congress this year. The Democratic Party must fight more effectively against the new tax law.

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The Broadway Green Alliance
Earth Day is held every year on April 22 and it is the largest civic-focused day of action in the world. On this day, individuals, communities and politicians come together to fight to reduce our global environmental impact. Since the

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A year ago, I wrote an article in Allegro called “When It Comes to Trump, Time Will Tell,” which detailed some of my concerns about the impending Trump presidency. Rather than enumerate all issues that worried me, I chose to

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I feel incredibly fortunate to work on projects that strike that special chord in me, the one that compels me to dive wholeheartedly into a record without any hesitation, happily putting in countless hours as I strive to make the

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Technology continues to evolve and influence the landscape for nearly all facets of the music industry. With the astounding rate of technological change, it is easy to fall behind as new situations and ethical questions arise. Electronics are both powerful

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The new Single Engagement Club Date Agreement has finally arrived. This agreement is utilized for club dates and one-off concerts (non-classical). After more than a year of negotiating for better wages, benefits and working conditions, the agreement went into force

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Musicians and the #MeToo Movement, Saying No to Non-Union Work, and Increasing Diversity in Orchestras...
Meredith Snow
The 56th annual meeting of the International Conference of Symphony and Opera Musicians was held this past August at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza, a beautiful art deco hotel first opened in 1931. Hosted by the musicians of the Cincinnati

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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 editor Mikael Elsila or write to Allegro, Local 802,

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The Immigrant Arts Coalition, an activism support group composed of New York City cultural organizations (including Local 802), recently sent a letter to President Donald Trump about the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service’s decision to adjust its mission statement. The

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Jazz Mentors XVII: 'Stoking the Starmaker Machinery'
Photos by Kent Smith. Creating a buzz is key to marketing yourself and your music. With today’s technology, creating that buzz is easier than ever. But you need to have the right tools and guidance at your disposal. On Oct.

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Local 802 members give tips and insights to the next generation of theatre musicians
Sean Millman
Passing the torch from one generation to the next is one of the most sacred duties an artist can fulfill, and that’s what Local 802 members do each year at the NYU Broadway Percussion Seminar. The deadline to apply is

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Broadway veteran John Monaco reflects on his rich musical life and gives advice to the next generation
interview by Bob Pawlo
  John Monaco, a member of Local 802 since 1949, is a veteran of musical theatre. He has served as the musical coordinator for close to 75 Broadway musicals and played guitar and banjo on 40 more. An admirer of

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Joe McCarthy
I had temporarily left Local 802 after I went on the first national tour of “The Bodyguard: The Musical.” Now I’m happy to be back in New York and rejoining Local 802. My musical goal in NYC is to create

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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, Local 802, 322 West 48th Street, New York, NY

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Presented below are the statements of all candidates for Local 802 offices who submitted their statements to Allegro by the deadline. As per the election rules, “all candidates were afforded the right to submit statements and photos in accordance with

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Tony Damico
The 23rd annual Theatre Musicians Association conference was held this past August at the new AFM Local 47 offices in Burbank, California. It was a day and a half of interesting and informative addresses, presentations and discussions. Our host, Local

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New York Philharmonic concertmaster Frank Huang on the art of sharing music and connecting with audiences
Interview by Bob Pawlo
New York Philharmonic concertmaster Frank Huang, a member of Local 802 since 2015, has enjoyed a rich musical life. Born in Beijing, Huang moved to Houston at the age of seven, where he began violin lessons with his mother. Four

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Communications Subcommittee Notes
Bud Burridge, Sara Cutler, Martha Hyde and Wende Namkung
Welcome to the first in a series of articles from the Communications Subcommittee of the Local 802 Executive Board. Our mission is to expand direct communication between musicians and their representatives at Local 802. To this end, we are currently

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The Writing/Composing team of Aryanna Garber and Benjamin Velez are the winners of the Weston Playhouse Theatre’s 12th annual New Musical Award for their musical “Borderline.” The only award of its kind in the country, the Weston New Musical Award

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Katreese Barnes is always searching, always growing, and always staying on top
Interview by Bob Pawlo
Not many musicians can say in one lifetime that they’ve sung background for Sting, played saxophone for D’Angelo, and served as the pianist and music director for “Saturday Night Live.” If you don’t know Katreese Barnes by name, you certainly

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Steve Danenberg recently retired from his full-time position at Local 802 as supervisor of electronic media services. Steve has been serving our members for nearly a dozen years and we want to thank him on behalf of all of us

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Marc Malsegna
I joined Local 802 so I could start doing work as a sub in the pits on Broadway. I have been working as a guitarist/violinist for various pop artists, and performing and working as a session musician. Lately I have

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Michael Hopewell
After many years as a music director and pianist, my dream is to play in Broadway and Off Broadway pits, as I’m sure it is for so many. Until then, I want to earn my NYC cred by playing benefits,

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David Finck's musical journey is still taking him in new directions
interview by Bob Pawlo
  Music can only be described with words, but for David Finck, a member of Local 802 since 1981, music is a language all its own. “I hear music as a spoken language,” he says. “When I listen, I’m conscious

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Joe Pino
I joined Local 802 to play “Elf: The Musical” at Madison Square Garden, which was also my favorite recent gig. My musical goal in New York City is to play in an orchestra on a Broadway show. My principal instrument

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Introducing a new place for musicians and all entertainers to recorver after illness or surgery
There was palpable excitement at the Actors Fund Home last October when more than 100 guests celebrated the opening of their new wing: the Shubert Pavilion, which houses the Home’s subacute rehabilitation center for people recovering from illness or surgery.

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Sexual harassment protections are strengthened in our city and state
Harvey Mars, Esq.
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

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A candy company in Pennsylvania triggers a crisis that musicians and all workers should learn from
Harvey Mars, Esq.
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

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The future of public sector unions is in the hands of the Supreme Court
Harvey Mars, Esq.
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

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Migiwa Miyajima
I joined Local 802 after I recently recorded my first CD here in the U.S. My musical goal is to become a true bridge between NYC and my home country of Japan, where my nickname was the “bravest jazz musician”

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Ian Miller
I joined Local 802 specifically to take on professional musical theatre gigs, and to become a more active member in the professional music community here. My goal is to be a music director on Broadway while maintaining the variety of

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Kim Roberts Hedgpeth
The Film Musicians Secondary Markets Fund collects money for musicians. Specifically, when a musician provides services for a film, TV show or new media project under an AFM union contract, we identify, track and collect residuals for the use of

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Greg Minniefield
I re-joined Local 802 because it’s the backbone of my livelihood. Along with making it easy to get paid, the union stimulates my career. I started music at the early age of three, and it’s still the key factor in

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Once in a Lifetime
Local 802 member Mike Spengler tells all about standout moments in his career
Interview by Bob Pawlo
This article from the July 2018 issue of Allegro magazine

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Union Update
Marvin Moschel
By now, we’ve all had time to absorb the horrible implications of the Supreme Court’s decision in Janus vs. AFSCME, which was decided over the summer. In a nutshell, the decision means that public employees who choose not to join

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The incredible musical journey of Eddie Daniels
Interview by Bob Pawlo
Eddie Daniels, a member of Local 802 since 1957, is that rarest of musicians who is not only equally at home in both jazz and classical music, but excels at both with breathtaking virtuosity. Daniels first came to the attention

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The Broadway League finds that more young people are buying tickets to shows than ever before
Who actually attends a Broadway show? That’s the question that the Broadway League attempts to answer each year when it releases its annual demographics report. The latest report finds that  more New Yorkers attended a Broadway show than in any

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Listening to Joanne Brackeen
Joanne Brackeen as told to Bob Pawlo and Maria DiPasquale
Pianist Joanne Brackeen, a member of Local 802 since 1966, was one of this year’s winners of the prestigious NEA Jazz Master designation. Whatever the musical setting – whether solo, duo, trio, quartet, or quintet – Brackeen’s unique style of

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Brian Prunka
I was a member of AFM Local 174-496 when I lived in New Orleans, and I joined Local 802 when I became involved with the new Broadway show “The Band’s Visit.” Though my background is in jazz guitar, these days

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Gail Bauser
I’ve been a union member since I first began performing with the Florida Philharmonic. As an active cellist in the Western New York area, I am currently a member of the Buffalo and Niagara Falls locals as well as Local

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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

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Rebekah Griffin Greene
After 17 years of teaching and playing in New York City, I finally got a chance to shine a little brighter when I started subbing on “Phantom of the Opera” in late November. Local 802 is a fantastic network and

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Alexia DelGiudice Bigari
I joined Local 802 to pursue my music career in Manhattan after graduating with my master’s degree from Northwestern University. I earned my B.Mus. degree from Juilliard and am excited to be returning back to New York. I am very

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‘It Was a Beautiful Time’
Local 802 member Ed Xiques remembers his years with the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra and much more
Interview by Linda Miksza
| SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON FACEBOOK | UPDATE: Ed Xiques passed away on Dec. 4, 2020 at the age of 81 after being a member of Local 802 since 1963. Please enjoy the interview below that we published in 2018,

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How he set up a situation where Broadway contributes the most to the AFM Pension Plan
Not many people know the name Burton Turkus. He is best known for taking down nine members of a notorious Brooklyn crime syndicate in the early 1940s, after one of its members confessed everything he knew to Turkus, who was

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MET Orchestra Musicians play a 'musical read-aloud' joined by special guest Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer
Live music sounds best when it’s shared. In late January, members of the MET Orchestra were joined by Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer at the New York Public Library’s Harry Belafonte Branch in Harlem to perform a free “Musical Read-Aloud”

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Think tours are hard these days? Here's what is was like to go on the road in 1879
Styra Avins
Johannes Brahms on tour at age 46 as a piano virtuoso? Accompanying his violinist friend on the piano in his own violin concerto? Brahms, who steadfastly disliked giving concerts and had only done so either to pay the rent or

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W. Bryan Lammers
I joined Local 802 because in the current political climate, it is more important than ever to support the labor movement. Unions are responsible for all of the fair labor practices that most workers enjoy every day. I recently ran

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Cherry Choi Tung Yeung
I joined Local 802 because I am pursuing more and more professional opportunities. For instance, I recently had the chance to play with the New York Philharmonic. I auditioned for the New York Philharmonic Global Academy last year and was

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Billy Joe Kiessling
I joined Local 802 to stay protected as a professional musician. My musical goal in NYC is to perform again as an actor/musician on Broadway. One of my favorite recent gigs was being a part of the original Broadway company

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Alexander Greenberg
I joined Local 802 to expand my performing opportunities and work with the highest caliber of musicians. While I mainly work in theatre, I love any chance I can get to make music with other people. One of my most

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Music's past, present and future
Neil Turkewitz
As advocacy by artists for the digital future of the arts becomes more and more common and articulate, making it somewhat more difficult for copyright skeptics to play artists and labels against each other (although not for want of trying),

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RICHARD DALLESSIO Richard Michael Dallessio, 60, a member of Local 802 since 1987, died on May 1. Mr. Dallessio served as associate principal oboe and English horn with the New York City Ballet Orchestra, and also performed with the Metropolitan

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DYNAMIC
Juliette Jones is stratching boundaries and building new landscapes
Interview by Bob Pawlo
Juliette Jones, a member of Local 802 since 2009, is a multi-genre acoustic and electric violinist who has worked with Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, John Legend, Janelle Monáe, Hans Zimmer, Justin Timberlake, Toshi Reagon, Lizz Wright, Pharrell, Common, Frank Ocean,

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Lewis Porter
I’m a jazz pianist, keyboardist, composer, jazz author and educator. I grew up in the Bronx and have many, many connections with Local 802. I am friends with probably hundreds of members. I conducted a workshop at Local 802 with

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Local 802 member tries his hand at inventing
Larry Spivack
Since I joined Local 802 in 1971, I have worn many hats: percussionist, drummer, keyboardist, conductor, copyist, orchestrator and educator. But 10 years ago an unexpected one came up: inventor. Well, co-inventor actually. In 2008, my two partners and I

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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 or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th

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For most musicians, achieving a successful career is about setting goals and accomplishing them – mastering an instrument and perfecting your craft, creating positive momentum in your career, and attaining a certain level of employment or professional status. When the

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Evie Dolan
I joined Local 802 when I was cast in the role of Katie (the bassist) in “School of Rock” on Broadway. The kids in the band joined Local 802 because we were both actors and musicians. I love playing gigs

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Natalia Steinbach
I joined Local 802 because I’m interested in meeting new musicians, playing high-level theatre gigs, and performing solo, chamber and orchestral work. I also enjoy composing and arranging music and would love to have more opportunities to collaborate with other

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7th annual iPod donation drive on Broadway
Dave Roth
Music has the power to soothe the mind and heal the soul. That’s why I’m pleased to announce the seventh annual Broadway Alzheimer’s iPod Drive, which runs from Aug. 1 to 19. As some of you know, my mother suffered

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Donald Knapp Donald Roy Knapp, 98, a percussionist and a member of Local 802 since 1960, died on June 11. Mr. Knapp first learned how to play drums from his father Roy Knapp, a well-known Chicago drum teacher who taught

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 30, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:03 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Burridge, Dougherty, Garnett, Hyde, Namkung, Sharman, Chief of Staff Carroll. Executive Board member Hyde

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JOSEPH CIPRIANO Joseph Cipriano, 91, an alto saxophonist who also played clarinet, flute and piccolo, died on Dec. 24. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1951. Mr. Cipriano was born in Philadelphia but his family moved to

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JESSE SPARKS At 12 years old, Jesse Sparks is the youngest member of Local 802. Allegro recently caught up with him and asked him about his path in music so far. Here’s what he told us. I joined Local 802

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Mike McGrath
I joined Local 802 to meet new people, find new opportunities and grow my network. I play piano/keyboard, and I’m also a musical director, composer and educator. I perform solo as well as with jazz ensembles and pit orchestras. My

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Rosanne Soifer
I recently remembered this long-ago encounter, a blind date whose memorable line to me was, “I never met a musician before!” I thought Allegro readers would enjoy it. Picture the scenario. The car ride to the restaurant resembles a cutesy

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Legal Corner
Harvey Mars, Esq.
Musicians in the Greater Bridgeport Symphony have lost a case that puts other Connecticut workers in the cross-hairs. We need to fix the situation. Harvey Mars is counsel to Local 802. Legal questions from members are welcome. E-mail them to

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Harvey Mars, Esq.
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

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Jeffery Miller
I joined Local 802 after getting a job performing in a Shakespeare in the Park production of “Twelfth Night.” My musical goal in New York City is to be a well-respected, first-call trombonist. I want anyone who hires me to

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Local 802’s election of officers and delegates will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2018, for a term of office beginning Jan. 1, 2019 The offices open for election are: president, financial vice president, recording vice president, nine Executive Board

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Paul Harris
Paul Harris, 64, a bassist and a member of Local 802 since 1976, died on Sept. 2. Before his death, Mr. Harris had written his own obituary and requested that Allegro publish it in its entirety, which we do below.

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Local 802's new referral site
  It’s like making your own website for FREE! Local 802’s new online musician referral directory at www.NewYorkMusicians.com gives you the opportunity to create or enhance your digital presence. Promote your services on two different profile pages. Create an individual

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Lena Gabrielle
I joined Local 802 so I could be prepared to accept whatever work opportunities come my way. I am a music director, orchestrator, arranger, composer, lyricist and multi-instrumentalist with a passion for developing new shows, especially family theatre. My goal

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Richard Scott
I rejoined Local 802 to be to be a part of the NYC music scene and support fellow musicians. I was also encouraged to join because of the late guitarist Ronny Jordan, a fellow Local 802 member who was known

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Local 802 musicians have been busier than ever. On this page, we present photos of our members performing recent union gigs around the area. And remember – anytime you’re called to play a job, make a confidential call to Local

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Dress Rehearsal at Carnegie Hall
David Gilbert conducted the Senior Concert Orchestra at its annual recital at Carnegie Hall in October. The ensemble is composed of the most experienced professionals in New York City, many of them former musicians with the New York Philharmonic, MET

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Guest Commentary
Laura McQuade
This year marks the 45th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the landmark Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion nationwide. This anniversary also marks a year of groundswell organizing across the country with people showing support for the health, rights, and

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Marc Mommaas
I joined Local 802 when I was hired by the New School as a part-time teacher. I joined the union to honor the work that my colleagues and Local 802 staff have achieved in negotiations with the New School. Thanks

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John Keim
I re-joined Local 802 to gig as much as possible and to make as many recordings as possible. I came to NYC in 1981, and have been blessed to have played in many great ensembles throughout my career. I feel

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Sara Milonovich
I joined Local 802 to explore more diverse opportunities in NYC, including Broadway. My musical goal is to be as creatively challenged and inspired as possible by stepping into as many different NYC music scenes as I can manage. It

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Caroline Drexler
I joined Local 802 because I recently moved to NYC. I came from a smaller city and saw how the musicians there were reliant on their AFM local for support and representation. I loved seeing how the union advocated for

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Jersey Sullivan
I recently finished a two-year run in “School of Rock” on Broadway, where I played guitar and drums. While most kids in the show were more interested in joining Actors’ Equity, I was excited to join the musicians’ union because

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From jazz to classical to composition, Uri Caine is pushing boundaries
Interview by Bob Pawlo
Uri Caine is a true renaissance man. A master jazz pianist and an acclaimed classical composer, Caine attended the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied composition with George Rochberg and George Crumb. He has played with a huge variety of

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October 3, 2017
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2017 Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Dougherty, Garnett, Hyde, Namkung, Sharman, Suttmann. Minutes from September 26, 2017 reviewed. Executive Board

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Each year, as the tax season approaches, Allegro publishes these updated tax tips for musicians provided by Local 802’s accounting firm, Gould, Kobrick & Schlapp P.C. The new Tax Act passed by Congress this year will affect 2018 tax returns

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Robbi Hall Kumalo
I re-joined Local 802 to be part of the conversation that helps us creative artists move forward. I’m a jazz singer and songwriter who also plays piano, percussion and guitar. In addition to teaching, touring and recording, I also produce

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Joe Exley
I’ve been a full-time musician for 20 years so I figured it was about time to join the union. The logistics and business “behind the notes” gets increasingly complex and intense, so we gotta stick together. My musical goal in

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TOM MCINTOSH Tom McIntosh, 90, a trombonist, composer, arranger and conductor, died on July 26, 2017. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1956. Mr. McIntosh studied at the Peabody Conservatory before serving in the 427th Army Band,

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LILLIAN BERTOLINO Lillian I. Bertolino, 92, a violinist and a member of Local 802 since 1943, died earlier this year, on March 5. At 13, she was the winner of the New York Philharmonic Society Violin Scholarship and earned the

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Open up your mind Let your fantasies unwind in this darkness which you know you cannot fight the darkness of the music of the night. – Andrew Lloyd Weber, “The Phantom of the Opera” Andrew Lloyd Weber’s global phenomenon “The

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Matt Wong
I joined Local 802 to become better connected with New York City musicians. Plus I’m also a strong believer in what the union does. My musical goal in NYC is to immerse myself in as many musical situations as possible.

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Damion Corideo
I’ve been touring with Cirque du Soleil for the past six years. It’s been a beautiful and educational experience and I’ll never forget all the countries I visited and people I met. But now I’m happy to re-join Local 802

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John Reed
I’ve been a member of Local 802 for over 40 years and recently re-joined after inadvertently letting my membership lapse. I’m a cellist, but my musical goal right now is to promote my app MusicJOT, which is a music notation

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How Local 802 can take a step to address workplace intimidation for musicians
Harvey Mars, Esq.
No worker should have to put up with bullying and intimidation – and that includes musicians. Recently, Local 802 members have taken the lead in addressing this issue. But as an attorney, I am keenly aware of the fact that

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Write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10036, or send by e-mail contact form. Letters must be no more than 300 words. COMMENT ON THE PENSION FUND This 86-year-old has been receiving the same never-increasing

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John DeLaire
I used to be a member of Local 802 and recently re-joined the union after taking a break. I’ve been a member of AFM Local 47 (Los Angeles) and also Local 30-73 (Minneapolis-St. Paul) and it’s just nice to come

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Krisztina Kiss
I joined Local 802 after I was advised by many colleagues to join the union. I have been lucky enough to meet and play with many top musicians of New York City, and I would like to meet and play

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Let’s face it,  many relationships formed in this profession come and go. I’m sure this rings true for those reading this. But I am so very thankful for the blessing and eternal joy of knowing guitarist Chuck Loeb, who died

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June 12, 2018 - June 26, 2018
TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Cutler, Dougherty, Hyde, Namkung, Olness, Sharman, Chief of Staff Carroll. President Gagliardi absent on union business.

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Michael Coiro
I joined Local 802 after attending NYU’s Broadway Percussion Seminar. I would love to be able to say yes to any gig thrown at me. But I think my main goal is to become involved in the Broadway scene as

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Lynnea Harding
I joined Local 802 to connect to musicians and to further my music career. I was recently in Los Angeles as the music transcriber for DreamWorks Animation, which was an amazing experience. I learned how the film/TV music world works

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Arielle Legere
I joined Local 802 after moving to New York City. Previously, I was a member of AFM Local 571 (Halifax, Nova Scotia). I am an actor and a trained jazz and musical theatre vocalist, and I also play ukulele and

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Audrey Flores and Martha Hyde
On Oct. 24, Local 802 held its fall membership meeting. Instead of chairs set up in traditional rows, there were clusters set up under signs with months on them, with the purpose of encouraging roundtable-style peer group discussions in small

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Julie Lawrence
I joined Local 802 to connect with other like-minded musicians in New York and contribute to the thriving arts scene here. I’ll be graduating with my DMA soon, so now is a good time to join. My passion is playing

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Aaron Butler
I re-joined Local 802 because I believe in solidarity and the worker protection that unions effect. A performer with Sound Narcissist, BRBRCK, and Mind the Art, I am a pianist with a patchwork quilt of collaborations from opera to hip

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Feature Interview
Interview by Bob Pawlo
It’s not simply his abundant virtuosity that has made Christian McBride the most in-demand bassist of his generation. McBride, a member of Local 802 since 1993, consistently combines his deft musicianship with an innate ability to communicate his enthusiasm to

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Jonny Byers
I joined Local 802 after I started performing in “Farinelli and the King” on Broadway at the Belasco Theatre. This has certainly been a career highlight: baroque cello on Broadway! I’m a member of the British musicians’ union back in

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August 15, 2017 - September 26, 2017
TUESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2017 Meeting called to order at 11:04 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Brandford, Garnett, Sharman, Suttmann, Assistant to the President Bond. Minutes from August 8, 2017

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Victoria Theodore
I joined Local 802 after having been a member of Local 47 (Los Angeles) for many years. Over the past ten years, as a keyboardist and singer, I’ve toured with both Beyoncé and Stevie Wonder and also played in the

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Craig Holiday Haynes
I joined Local 802 because I simply felt that it was time to do the right thing and help our industry. I’d like to help increase the level of jazz organization (musicianship, pay and benefits) and to get more work

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Abdullah B. Rahman
I joined Local 802 when I started subbing for the musical “Smokey Joe’s Café.” I play drum set, and my musical goal is to continue to work on and around Broadway and to grow my personal brand as a reliable

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GLEN DAUM Glen Daum, 77, a member of Local 802 since 1979, died on Oct. 17. Mr. Daum was active as a composer, arranger and producer in New York for the past several decades, writing and arranging music for ABC

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Nick Wilders
I joined Local 802 after I was hired as the associate conductor/keys 2 player for the second national tour of “Jersey Boys.” I’m currently traveling North America with a dynamic group of performers, crew members and management. My favorite thing

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Two Local 802 members are connected in an incredibly special way
April is national organ donation month, and it’s a fitting time to remember an amazing connection between two Local 802 members. We’ll let them tell their story themselves. Meet Deryck Clarke and Mike Sayre… PART I: BY DERYCK CLARKE “I’m

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Rene X Valentine
I joined Local 802 after many years of wanting to join. Some of my friends are members and have only wonderful things to say about the union. My musical goal is to continue to perform and record as much as

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Saying goodbye to the world's oldest active conductor and a member of Local 802 for 71 years
Jo Simons
My father, Edward Simons, a member of Local 802 for 71 years, died on June 26 at the age of 101. He was the oldest orchestra conductor in the world. Besides being a conductor, my father was a violinist and

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November '18
The high school band that I was a member of in Kirkland, Washington during the early 1940s prided itself on its musicianship. We had a challenge system that the director had set up. If you felt that you could play

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Local 802 joins new Immigrant Arts Coalition; theatre rep Marlena Fitzpatrick García elected president
The Immigrant Arts Coalition, an alliance of New York City cultural organizations, has unveiled an agenda aiming to recognize the important and ongoing contributions of immigrant artists and arts organizations representing America’s diverse cultural mosaic. Local 802 theatre rep Marlena

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BUELL NEIDLINGER Buell Neidlinger, 82, a bassist and a longtime member of Local 802, died on March 16. Mr. Neidlinger’s talents manifested themselves early – first on cello, which he played proficiently before his teens, and then on the upright

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June '18
My old friend Howard Williams passed away recently (see Requiem). He sat at a desk next to mine here at the Local 802 Recording Checks Department from 1991 until recently, when he moved to Connecticut to live near his brother-in-law.

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Anthony Di Bartolo
I joined Local 802 to pursue more performance work in NYC. I’ve been working in New York and Philadelphia for about 10 years and am ready for some new opportunities and to expand my network. I’d like to be able

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Tim Wiencis
I am proud to say that I am now a member of Local 802. My musical friends have described how they’ve benefited over the years from their association with the union – including being listed in the Local 802 directory

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MARIO ESCALERA Mario Escalera, 77, a saxophonist, flutist and clarinetist, died last Dec. 1, 2017. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1984. Mr. Escalera was born in Cuba, migrated to Puerto Rico and eventually settled in the

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EDWARD BIRDWELL Ed Birdwell, 81, a French hornist and a member of Local 802 since 1961, died on Jan. 26. Mr. Birdwell came to the French horn as a would-be trumpet player facing stiff competition in his hometown Texas high

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Marvin Roth, 97, a longtime Broadway wind player and a member of Local 802 since 1946, died on July 9. Over 42 years, he played in 24 shows, including “Guys & Dolls,” “Carnival,” “Mame,” “Gypsy” and the entire run of

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Drummer Sherrie Maricle does it all
Interview by Bob Pawlo
Sherrie Maricle, a member of Local 802 since 1988, is a top bandleader, music director, composer, arranger and percussionist. From the drum set, Maricle leads three incarnations of her DIVA groups: the DIVA Jazz Orchestra, the DIVA Jazz Trio, and

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July 3, 2018 - August 7, 2018
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on July 3, 2018 or July 10, 2018. TUESDAY, JULY 17, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:10 am by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Cutler,

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December '18
In my early years in New York City, I lived for a while in a basement apartment on West 10th Street with the singer Dave Lambert. He had broken up with his wife, who had found an apartment on 12th

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February 27, 2018 - March 6, 2018
NOTE: The Executive Board did not meet on Tuesday, Feb. 20 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Burridge, Cutler, Dougherty,

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March 20, 2018 - June 5, 2018
TUESDAY, MARCH 20, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Burridge, Cutler, Dougherty, Garnett, Namkung, Olness, Sharman, Suttmann, Chief of Staff Carroll. President Gagliardi absent on

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Peter Douskalis
I joined Local 802 because I had the amazingly fortunate opportunity to sub on the Broadway show “Dear Evan Hansen.” I love to make music that inspires people as well as incites progress and radical change for social justice through

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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. Send letters to the editor or write to Allegro, Local 802, 322 West

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The Musicians' Voice
I remember my close friend, the trombonist and bandleader Bill Watrous, who died on July 2 and had first joined Local 802 in 1962. We met on a Kai Winding gig, four days in Virginia Beach, Labor Day 1962. One

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Reminiscences
Gary Solomon
I am deeply saddened to share with you the passing of my father, Murray Solomon. He died on April 5 at the age of 91 after being a member of Local 802 since 1943. Known in the industry as “Doc”

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I joined Local 802 to pursue more performance work in Manhattan. Formerly a member of Local 16 in Paterson, New Jersey, I’ve been working more recently at the Manhattan School of Music pre-college program as a collaborative pianist and assistant

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Improve endurance and stop masking performance pain!
Tamar Shapiro
The Actors Fund is your one-stop shop for almost any kind of service you can imagine. We offer counseling – both one-on-one and in groups – as well as information on all kinds of social services, including health insurance, housing,

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Martha Hyde
Folks who choose the HMO option as an alternative to the Local 802 health Plans A or A+ will soon see dramatically higher premiums. Local 802 Musicians’ Health Fund has offered the option of an Empire Blue Cross HMO for

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Eli Chalmer
I moved back to NYC in January 2017 after playing trombone in the show band on a short cruise ship contract. Before that, I had a full-time non-music career for eight years. I had been playing professionally on the side

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2017 Meeting called to order at 11:06 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Dougherty, Hyde, Namkung, Suttmann. Minutes from October 31, 2017 reviewed. It was moved and

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March 13, 2018
TUESDAY, MARCH 13, 2018 Meeting called to order at 11:07 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Cutler, Dougherty, Garnett, Hyde, Namkung, Sharman, Suttmann. Minutes from March 6, 2018 reviewed. It was moved and seconded

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December 10, 2017 - January 23, 2018
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017 Meeting called to order at 11:02 a.m. by Financial Vice President Olcott. Present: Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Burridge, Cutler, Dougherty, Hyde, Namkung, Sharman, Suttmann, Chief of Staff Carroll. President Gagliardi absent. Minutes from

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After spending 12 years in the nonunion freelance music world, I finally joined “Eight Oh Two” – three words one hears a lot traveling around the country, which is how I’ve spent the past six years of my life, touring

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My tribute to Peter Duchin
Roberta Fabiano
When I first started out in the club date field, there were a lot of club date offices in and around the New York area. My goal was to work with the top of the line, the best of the

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All LS-1 contracts must be submitted by July 15, 2018 for the benefit period that begins September 1, 2018. Only teaching (private and institutional) and/or solo, live engagements performed between Jan. 1 and June 30, 2018 can be reported on

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Daniel Linden
I originally joined Local 802 when I moved to NYC from Boston, after another musician recommended I sign up. At the time, I had few connections but knew I wanted to be a part of the diverse and exciting musical

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Case # 943: Bryla-Weiss vs. Chung (C-07963), filed Feb. 2, 2018. Trial Board convened four times for this case, as follows: Wednesday, April 11, 2018: Meeting called to order at 1:15 p.m. by Chairperson Blanc. Present: Blanc, Eidem, Gorruso, Lorentsen,

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The following bylaw amendment will be proposed and voted on at the membership meeting on June 6 at 5pm in the Local 802 Club Room. (Admission to meeting by paid-up membership card only.) NEW LANGUAGE IS UNDERLINED: Article III, section

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The following bylaw amendment will be proposed and voted on at the membership meeting on June 6 at 5pm in the Local 802 Club Room. (Admission to meeting by paid-up membership card only.) NEW LANGUAGE IS UNDERLINED: Article III, section

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I  rejoined Local 802 upon returning to NYC after living in Virginia for 12 years, six years of which I was teaching flute and chamber music at the University of Virginia at Charlottesville. My musical goal in NYC is to

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ERNIE ACQUISTO Ernie Acquisto, 95, a bassist and a member of Local 802 since 1946, died on Oct. 27. Mr. Acquisto learned to play bass from his brother John. By 17, he was playing with jazz bands in Harlem and

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July/August 2018
Vinnie Burke was a wonderful bass player who was on the New York jazz scene when I first came here. I heard him at sessions when I was learning to play, and he sometimes let me sit in on his

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October '18
When I was a kid, I had four musical instruments that every other kid I knew also had. I had a harmonica, a kazoo, a jaw harp…and a humanatone. The humanatone was a nose whistle. Cleverly folded out of a

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February '18
This note from Local 802 member Sarah Seiver was published in the New York Times “Metropolitan Diary” in December: Dear Diary, When I was born, my brother thought I looked like a doll. He nicknamed me Dolly. It stuck. My

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When I was in high school, I found an after-school job in the print shop of my home town’s weekly newspaper. It was there that I learned the printing trade, which included melting type metal and casting slugs for the

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I started learning songs when I was still in my infant crib, and I’m still at it at the age of 90. Lately I’ve noticed that I don’t remember the bridges of some of the earliest ones, but I do

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May 2018
Gil Evans developed his composing and arranging chops back in the late 1940s writing for the Claude Thornhill band. I’ve always loved an instrumental arrangement he did for Claude of a ballad by John Benson Brooks called “The Happy Stranger.”

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January '18
I usually have my car radio set to one of the two jazz radio stations in the New York City area. The music seems ageless, but the disc jockeys seem to be getting younger and younger. I suppose some of

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Eric Shumsky
The music world lost a beloved concert violinist, pedagogue and humanitarian on Jan. 10. Shirley Givens, 87, had been a member of Local 802 since 1953. She was known throughout the music world for her great work teaching generations of

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October 10, 2017 - October 31, 2017
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2017 Meeting called to order at 11:05 a.m. by President Gagliardi. Present: Financial Vice President Olcott, Recording Vice President Schwartz, Executive Board members Burridge, Cutler, Garnett, Hyde, Namkung, Sharman.  Minutes from October 3, 2017 reviewed. It was

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Roger Blanc
On Jan. 31, the New York chapter of the RMA held its annual beeting in the Local 802 Club Room from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Among those in attendance were Pat Varriale, the head of the AFM Electronic Media

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March '18
I met Teddy Wilson when I joined the Benny Goodman band in 1962 for a tour of the Soviet Union, with a warm-up week beforehand at the Seattle World’s Fair. During that first week, Benny decided he needed a more

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