TOGETHER - Allegro - MUSICIAN RESOURCES FOR A CRITICAL TIME - Local 802
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Allegro
April 2020 l Volume 120, No. 4
associated
musicians
of greater
New York
www.Local802afm.org
WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS
TOGETHER
MUSICIAN RESOURCES FOR A CRITICAL TIME
n YOUR UNION STAFF
LOCAL 802
OFFICERS FIELD REPRESENTATIVES
Adam Krauthamer, President Theresa Couture
Karen Fisher, Financial Vice President Marisa Friedman
Andy Schwartz, Recording Vice President
Shane Gasteyer
Executive Board Bob Pawlo
Janet Axelrod, Lynne Cohen, Todd Weeks
Monica Davis, Pete Donovan,
Elise Frawley, Kyle Hoyt, Morris Local 802 MUSICIANS HEALTH Fund
Kainuma, Caryl Paisner, Bobby Shankin Administrator
Gloria McCormick
Trial Board
Cenovia Cummins, Sylvia D’Avanzo, Allegro
Javier Gándara, Bill Hayes, Mikael Elsila (Editor, Advertising
Joanna Maurer, Mary Ann McSweeney, Manager and Graphic Designer)
Warren Odze, Louise Owen, Dan Peck
HEADQUARTERS: 322 West 48th Street,
Delegates to AFM Convention
New York, NY 10036
Adam Krauthamer, Pete Donovan,
EVEN DURING A CRISIS,
Phone: (212) 245-4802
Javier Gándara, Bill Hayes, Dean LeBlanc,
Caryl Paisner Web site: www.Local802afm.org
Delegates to New york city
Central Labor Council
OFFICE HOURS: Daily 9:30 a.m. to
5:30 p.m., except Saturdays, Sundays, IT’S IMPORTANT TO COUNT
Adam Krauthamer, Bill Hayes,
Caryl Paisner
and holidays
DUES WINDOW closes at 3 p.m. EVERY NEW YORKER
E
Delegates to New York State AFL-CIO CHECKS WINDOW closes at 4:30 p.m.
ven as the coronavirus crisis interrupts our lives in unimaginable ways, we
Adam Krauthamer, Lynne Cohen (5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays)
can help each other by focusing on a positive future. The 2020 U.S. Census –
Delegate to United Hebrew Trades ALLEGRO (ISSN 0002-5704) is published which is happening right now – can affect future arts funding in a positive
way, and that’s something good to focus on at the present. By now, you should
Bobby Shankin monthly (except for a combined July/
have received via snail mail an invitation to participate in the census. You have three
Supervising Officers August issue) at an annual subscription options for responding: online, by phone or by mail. The questions are simple and
Adam Krauthamer: Radio City, rate of $30 for non-members in the U.S. all your personal information is kept confidential. The Census Bureau is bound by
Lincoln Center Orchestras, Theatres, and $35 out of country, by Local 802, federal law to protect your information and your data is used only for statistical
purposes. Learn more at 2020CENSUS.GOV.
Organizing Associated Musicians of Greater New York,
For various reasons, in past years a significant number of New Yorkers haven’t
Karen Fisher: Single Engagement 322 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10036. participated in the census. Without a complete count, our city’s fair share of con-
Concerts, Symphony, Opera, Ballet, Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY gressional representation is at stake, as are billions of dollars in federal funding for
Music Performance Trust Fund health, education, transportation, infrastructure such as bridges and tunnels, and
and additional offices (USPS #013-880).
Andy Schwartz: Electronic Media, many other programs that New Yorkers rely on.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
Single Engagement Club Dates, Hotels, Specifically for the arts community, the census has the potential to seriously im-
Nightclubs, Jazz, Latin, Music Education, ALLEGRO, Local 802, 322 West 48th Street, pact the distribution of dollars from the federal cultural agencies. But population-
Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund New York, NY 10036. based funding allocations also exist throughout the government, including in the
Departments of Education, Housing and Urban Development, Agriculture and oth-
MANAGING DIRECTOR AND Allegro is printed at Bayard Printing Group, ers, all of which also have pockets of funds that go to the arts. Additionally, special
SENIOR ADVISER which is a union shop. government grants are given to areas with large populations of historically marginal-
Jon Kantor ized communities. If the census doesn’t get an accurate count of these populations,
To reach Local 802: (212) 245-4802 then arts organizations engaged with those populations could be hindered in the
communications and To reach Allegro: (646) 765-9663 or amount of money they can get through government grants.
markETING associate Allegro@Local802afm.org or For all these reasons, it’s critical that our members participate in the census, and
Maria DiPasquale that we as union members engage with our friends, family, and communities to make
Allegro, Local 802, 322 West 48th Street,
sure that every person is counted. The NYC Central Labor Council and the Consortium
MUSIC PREP ADMINISTRATOR New York, NY 10036 for Worker Education are leading the Labor Counts 2020 initiative in NYC, getting
David Will union members and our communities involved in taking the census. You can sign
Personnel Administrator up for updates from Labor Counts Census 2020 by texting NYCLABORCOUNTS to
87787. It’s up to us to shape the future of our communities! And if you haven’t
Lisa Mejia
taken the 2020 U.S. Census yet, start at 2020CENSUS.GOV right now!
2 Allegro | April 2020
n advertising
CINCINNATI•NYC•SEAT TLE
Myofascial Pain Expert INCOME TAX
T R E AT M E N T F O R M U S I C I A N S B Y A M U S I C I A N
Stop Suffering with Chronic Pain
SERVICE
Over 30 years’ experience preparing
Avoid Surgery and Recovery Time income tax returns for
Avoid Cortisone Injections
Avoid Side Effects of Pain Meds
Integrative & Holistic Care
MUSICIANS
l Get every deduction allowable by law
l Professional expertise at a reasonable rate
NUTRITION
l Electronic filing available (refunds in 1 week)
REDUCED PAIN & IMPROVED HEALING
Don Aibel
Hal S. Blatman, MD Tax attorney and former Local 802 member
DAAPM, ABIHM, FAAO APT
145 West 57th Street, 10th floor, New York, NY 10019
844.282.8900 (212) 765-7532 (phone); (201) 767-5583 (fax)
Don@AibelTax.com
W W W. B LAT M A N H E A LT H A N D W E L L N E S S . C O M
income tax preparation
Perry Ritter
40 years’ experience Woodwind repair
Specializing in the preparation of INCOME TAX returns 71 West 47th Street, Suite 704, New York, NY 10036
for musicians and entertainers (212) 302-5443 and (212) 956-6174 l www.PerryRitter.com
Open Monday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
l Woodwind and mouthpiece restoration, overhauls,
Come in or call for appointment repairs and service
l Vintage and reconditioned instruments for sale
Martin Ozer l We customize keys to support finger and hand
dexterity
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 2440, New York, New York 10170
Perry Ritter has been doing complete restorations and
OZERTAX@aol.com
repairs of woodwind instruments for more than 35 years
(212) 245-4870 All instruments are sensitively and
Surprisingly Reasonable Rates respectfully handled
April 2020 | Allegro 3
n NEWS & VIEWS
WE WILL GET THROUGH
THIS TOGETHER l Maintaining union health care Here’s another thing to think about. tips, life hacks and even job opportuni-
through the Local 802 Shortfall Health Many musicians live on the margin to ties.
president’s Funds (for rostered members of certain begin with, but there’s always someone Local 802 will continue to be your ally
report orchestras)
l Our demands and petitions for relief
who’s in a worse situation. As anxious as
we are right now, let’s also try to keep in
during this crisis. Although our building
is now closed due to the stay-at-home
from our elected leaders, including my mind the things that we can be grateful order and will remain closed for the fore-
ADAM KRAUTHAMER own statements to the media for in this moment. One thing that I am seeable future, we are open for the lim-
l A growing compilation of emergen- grateful for is the outpouring of support ited business we can process remotely
cy relief and coronavirus resources. (See from our own community for the Local and are working around the clock to be
even more at www.Local802afm.org/ 802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund. the best advocate possible under these
Akrauthamer@Local802afm.org resource-center) Please donate at www.Local802erf.org. circumstances. You can always reach me
(212) 245-4802, ext. 100 If you’re a member who works on Since the 802 office is closed until fur- personally at (212) 245-4802, ext. 100
Broadway, check the “COVID-19 Broad- ther notice, we strongly encourage donat- or use our website (www.Local802afm.
T
way Updates” button in the member por- ing online. If you can’t donate, you can org) or Facebook page (www.Facebook.
here are no words to describe tal at info.local802afm.org for the most still help spread the word by sharing our com/Local802AFM) to reach us quickly.
the evolving crisis that all of us recent bargaining unit updates. posts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Please hang in there, stay focused on
are experiencing right now. The As bad as this situation is, remember I would also like to thank the many what is really important, hug your loved
pain and confusion are possibly that everyone is in the same boat. We all workers who are on the front lines and ones, and we will get through this togeth-
at the highest level that many of us have want the coronavirus to be eradicated, who are exposing themselves so that so- er. Most of all stay hopeful! Having hope
ever felt, and I don’t have to list all the to get back to work, and to get kids back ciety can continue. I’m thinking not just gives us all the courage to survive any
many ways our lives are changed for the in school. As a society, we have enough of health care workers but also those who hardship – and musicians are survivors.
moment. I think the most useful ap- people power to demand relief from our work for the post office and delivery com-
proach is to focus on the positive things elected officials, and they realize that. We panies and those who work in grocery FOCUSING ON THE FUTURE
that we can do for each other as a union must use this collective power with one stores, pharmacies, gas stations, public Even as the coronavirus crisis con-
and as fellow musicians. I also want us to voice to call on every level of government transportation, warehouses and other sumes our lives, there will be light at
stay focused on the big picture and have to support. See www.bitly.com/local- places deemed essential services. the end of the tunnel and Local 802 is
hope for the future. 802-coronavirus and www.facebook. We know in reality that this crisis won’t continuing to work on current projects
com/Local802AFM for the latest peti- last forever. Scientists are working on so that when the crisis passes, we are
UNION UPDATES tions and actions you can take. treatments and early vaccines right now. strategically ahead of the curve. To that
First, be advised that the Local 802 As I write these words, new coronavi- end, I encourage you read the other
building is closed until further notice, THE BIG PICTURE rus cases in certain hotspots around the articles in this issue of Allegro, includ-
in compliance with Gov. Cuomo’s stay- I’d like to focus on the big picture for world are already decreasing. There will ing an important look at what classical
at-home order that went into effect on a moment. As painful as our situation is be a time when we’ll be able to look back committees can do (page 5), a preview
March 22. However, your business rep- for our jobs, please remember experts on this. The question will be, can we learn of negotiations with the New School on
resentatives continue to be available to have said that more than two million from this experience so that we’re better behalf of part-time jazz faculty (page 20),
you remotely during Local 802’s business Americans are literally at risk of dying prepared as a society (or as a union) next a celebration of Jazz Appreciation Month
hours of Monday through Friday, 9:30 if we don’t contain the coronavirus. An- time? What can we do better? with some very welcome news that Local
a.m. to 5:30 p.m., to answer any contract other report said that New York doesn’t I want to encourage all of us to keep up 802 member Reggie Workman has won
questions. Find the staff directory at own enough ventilators if thousands of our mental, physical, musical, and spiri- the esteemed title of Jazz Master from
www.local802afm.org/leadership. people were to be admitted to area hos- tual practices. Please remember to reach the National Endowment for the Arts
We are constantly updating the Local pitals. We’re being asked to think not just out to each other especially to those mu- (page 31), tax tips for musicians (page
802 coronavirus action page, which is at about our own health, but also about the sicians who you know are more isolated. 36), an inspiring article by Don Greene
www.bitly.com/local-802-coronavirus. most vulnerable in society, including On social media, there are hundreds of about how musicians can choose to cope
There you’ll find the most up-to-date in- older people: our parents, grandparents opportunities to connect with fellow mu- during this crisis (page 14), special cover-
formation on: and elders. It is now clear that younger sicians. (See page 8 for one site developed age about Earth Day activism from our
l Applying for help through the Local people are vulnerable too. Our job is to by Local 802 member Steve Behnke.) community (pages 18 and 19), some great
802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund “flatten the curve,” to limit the exponen- There are ways to give and take lessons news that the NYU Broadway Percussion
l Applying for unemployment ben- tial growth of the virus -- and the stakes and classes via platforms like Skype and Summit is open for registration (page
efits through New York state are literally life or death. Zoom. There are places to share financial 26), and more.
4 Allegro | April 2020
n NEWS & VIEWS
COMING TOGETHER AS LEADERS
made in committee impact not just committee. Union officials must also and new members. As a committee
us personally, but also our colleagues ensure that negotiations do not run member, you will become intimately
and sometimes the entire musical afoul of labor law. familiar with the inner workings of the
karen community. This first in a series of
essays will attempt to clarify what
Union staff may also help with the
mechanics of committee elections
orchestra and will have learned some
labor law and negotiation strategies
fisher committee work involves in the hope
that newer committee members will
and writing bylaws. While committee
work is protected activity, it is often
along the way. In an ideal world, every
member of the orchestra would serve
gain an understanding of what to the union’s job to deliver difficult mes- a term, as this work gives one the tools
expect when asked to serve. sages to management so that commit- to truly understand the contract. For
Karen Fisher is the financial vice president tee members and other individuals will example, a provision may seem un-
of Local 802 and the supervisor of the Why do we need committees? not feel targeted. necessary or outdated until you learn
union’s concert department Simply, committee members are the bargaining history and discover the
Kfisher@Local802afm.org advocates for their colleagues and are How are committees formed? reason it was negotiated into the con-
(212) 245-4802, ext. 105 the rank-and-file representatives of the Members are elected by their peers. If tract in the first place. This kind of in-
union in the workplace. Since union the orchestra doesn’t stipulate a proce- sight only comes from being involved
T
reps or officers cannot be present on dure in its bylaws, the process is usually in the process. New committee mem-
he week of March 9, 2020 began every job, committees must, from described in the collective bargaining bers, however, bring fresh ideas and
the most extraordinary and sur- time to time, become intermediaries agreement. Most committees consist of perspectives to the table. The best way
real time for our country since when conflict or contract questions an odd number of musicians, usually to secure the future of the orchestra is
9/11. The precautions taken to arise and be responsible for making three or five people, in case of a tie in to pass institutional knowledge to the
stem the spread of COVID-19 extended quick decisions. All complaints, an internal vote. The supervisor of the next generation.
to the widespread closure of nearly ev- problems, grievances and questions concert department and sometimes a It is advantageous, but not neces-
ery arts institution in the country. When funnel through the committee to Local 802 business rep completes the sary, for committee members to come
news of the cancellations started coming the union and then – if appropriate team. from different sections of the orchestra.
in to Local 802, we immediately began – to management. For this reason, Each committee makes its own rules. Contractual clauses dealing with string
working to mitigate the financial dam- committee members must have a Who will be the chair and what role seating, doubling and cartage can best
age to our members. We gathered re- good understanding of the terms of will they play in meetings and at the be addressed by musicians who are af-
sources and reached out to our employ- their contract and have institutional bargaining table? How long will the fected by those provisions. Also, those
ers, many of whom stepped up and are knowledge of the orchestra, its members serve? Will there be a rota- with ability in math, spreadsheets,
compensating musicians for lost work mission and its bargaining history. tion of new members and how often writing, organization and research are
and health benefits. Nevertheless, I have Most importantly, committees must will there be elections? Will there be extremely helpful when dividing up
great concern for our freelance commu- be actively involved and present in alternates and how involved will they responsibilities.
nity and for the financial viability of our contract negotiations to ensure that be? What are the expectations of each Our committees are the backbone
orchestras. The world will certainly look your union is fairly representing the member? of our union and are our partners in
different when this is over, but musi- interests of the musicians. achieving the best outcome for the or-
cians are resilient and resourceful. The Who should serve? chestra. I hope that after learning more
human impulse to create music together What is the role of the union? This one can be tricky. Not everyone about committee work, some of you
will never disappear. The union plays many roles, includ- has the interest, time or stomach for will reconsider your perception and
As the bad news spread, I remained ing guiding the committee in all as- committee work. Any musician with a become involved in the decisions that
in contact with our orchestra commit- pects of contract interpretations, com- personal, familial or fiduciary interest govern your life at work.
tees, all of whom have been incredibly municating directly with management with management should step down. In a future column, I’ll discuss how
helpful, understanding and proactive. and sometimes being the impartial me- Some may assume that the most se- committees prepare for negotiations
Besides fielding questions from col- diator in helping the committee reach nior or most militant members of the and their role in the day-to-day life of
leagues and helping me disseminate consensus. Minor issues, especially orchestra are best suited for this role. the orchestra.
information quickly and efficiently, interpersonal conflict between musi- This is not necessarily true! Commit-
they have been busy behind the scenes cians, can be resolved internally with ment, honesty, integrity and diplomacy CORONAVIRUS ACTION CENTER
advocating for their orchestra mem- the help of the union and the commit- are more important than possessing I started this column by talking about
bers’ health and wellbeing. I could not tee. In contract negotiations, union of- the loudest voice. Committee work the coronavirus. Let me conclude by
be more grateful for their wisdom and ficials (i.e. myself in many cases) lead takes time, patience, problem-solving saying that Local 802 is putting many
responsiveness. the negotiation and usher through and leadership skills, and a willingness safeguards and resources in place to
Even during normal times, the proposals and other contract-related to listen. It is perfectly fine to say “no” help musicians navigate the crisis.
idea of serving on an orchestra documents from the first meeting to if you are nominated to serve and feel Please keep watching www.bitly.com/
committee may seem daunting to the the final, ratified contract. But every- that it is not right for you. Local-802-coronavirus for updates. I
uninitiated. Certainly, committee work thing must be done in conjunction The most effective committees con- wish you all good health and a quick
is a heavy responsibility. Decisions with – and with the approval of – the sist of a mix of both seasoned veterans return to work.
April 2020 | Allegro 5
n MEMBERSHIP ALERT
Local 802’s Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund helps
our members who are in dire need right now
WHEN TIMES ARE TOUGH
WE SUPPORT EACH OTHER
Musicians often live without a safety net. That’s where we come in.
The Local 802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund is a nonprofit organization
whose mission is to provide Local 802 members with reliable assistance
in times of need – like catastrophic illness, dramatic career downturns or
financial hardship. We provide counseling, grants and more.
To donate, please visit
www.Local802erf.org/donate-now
To apply for help, start at
www.Local802erf.org/how-to-apply
Learn more at www.Local802erf.org
6 Allegro | April 2020
n NEWS & VIEWS
Are you teaching online during the
coronavirus crisis?
You can use LS-1 contracts to get onto
the union’s health plan! PLUS!
A
re you teaching online what CAN be filed l Health contributions must be 15 Three other ways
during the coronavirus crisis,
using Skype, Zoom or another
You can file regular private lessons
as well as institutional teaching, master
percent of the gross wages reported.
We’ll explain this when you contact us.
to maintain your
platform? Do you need to classes and clinics. l If you’re eligible to do pension, health coverage
contribute a little more to get Local 802
health benefits? LS-1 contracts offer the CAN I PAY INTO MY PENSION ALSO?
then pension contributions must be an
amount between 4.80 percent to 17.99
during the
opportunity to take advantage of Local
802’s health plan. You can use these
The pension fund does not accept LS-
1’s for private teaching engagements,
percent of the gross wages reported. coronavirus crisis
We’ll explain this when you contact us.
contracts to maintain or supplement with two exceptions. Private teaching 1. Local 802 has negotiated a
l Work dues are 2 percent of gross
your current benefits. contributions for pension will be ac- health benefits shortfall fund in
cepted for pension if you are incorpo- wages (for teaching engagements), several of our orchestra contracts to
THERE IS A NEED FOR rated (i.e. an LLC or “S”-corporation or or 3.5 percent of gross wages (for help freelance orchestra musicians
ONLINE MUSIC LESSONS! something similar) and if the teaching performances). We’ll explain this when maintain their health insurance.
Kids who are motivated musicians re- income runs through your corporation. you contact us. The musicians on the primary
ally want to continue their lessons dur- Private teaching contributions for pen- l Proof of engagement includes hiring lists of certain orchestras
ing this crisis. Parents who are working sion will also be accepted if you are hired paperwork like canceled checks, may apply for contributions from
from home need something for their by a school or instituation and they contracts, invoices, schedules of the funds as long as they have
kids to to do. And musicians need to re- agree to sign the LS-1 contract as your lessons, etc. We’ll explain this when you at least some contributions in
place their lost income. Teaching online employer. contact us. the plan for the covered period.
is a win-win for everyone. For more information, send an
WHAT DO MY STUDENTS NEED TO DO?
When do I have to submit the checks
e-mail to Karen Fisher at Kfisher@
WHAT DOES THE LOCAL 802 Each student or school needs to sign a Local802afm.org. (NOTE: the
TO THE PENSION AND HEALTH FUNDS?
HEALTH PLAN COVER? separate LS-1 contract. We’ll give you all earliest date to begin requests is
See www.local802afm.org/local- the info. See below. Health Fund: Submit by Jan. 15 of July 1.)
802-healthcare for a complete each year for any engagements between
summary of coverage. Coverage is What do I need in order July 1 and Dec. 31. Submit by July 15 of 2. The COBRA law allows workers
available for single people, married to submit the LS-1? each year for any engagements between to continue their health plan for
people and families. Below is where you can find the info, Jan. 1 and June 30. a certain amount of time (at their
but please contact Local 802 before you Pension: All pension payments must own expense) if they lose it. Contact
Why DO I NEED TO GET MY PRIVATE do anything. Contact info is at the end be submitted no later than 30 days after the Local 802 health fund at (212)
STUDENTS INVOLVED? WHY can’t I just BUY of the article. the engagement date. 245-4802 at ext. 171, 172, 173 or
HEALTH CARE DIRECTLY FROM THE UNION? l Blank LS-1 contracts are available at 178 (leave a voicemail and we’ll get
The Local 802 health benefits fund is a www.Local802afm.org. Select ABOUT FINAL REMINDER back to you promptly).
federally regulated fund that is required LOCAL 802 from the top menu, then
Nothing can be processed until all
by law to have a collective bargaining CONTRACTS, then scroll down to find 3. If you’ve lost your health
signed and completed paperwork is
agreement with an employer in order “Solo Performance and Private Teaching coverage unexpectedly, you
received by us, along with all checks.
to accept benefit contributions. LS-1 (LS-1 contract).” Print it out and contact us. may be able to buy ACA
contracts serve as mini contracts that l You must be an active member (Obamacare) coverage now. Start
allow your private students to act as your of Local 802 to use an LS-1 contract, CONTACT US FIRST! at www.healthcare.gov for more
employer (which, of course, they are) in and all work dues must be paid in full. If you have any questions about LS-1 information. Losing your health care
order to make health contributions on You can verify your union status at: contracts, please e-mail Bettina Covo at is considered a “qualifying event.”
your behalf. https://info.local802afm.org. Bcovo@Local802afm.org
April 2020 | Allegro 7
n NEWS & VIEWS HOW MUSICIANS ARE HELPING EACH OTHER Local 802 member Steven Behnke has created a Facebook resource group because, he tells Allegro, “it’s really important musicians have a digital home while we’re going through one of the greatest challenges our community has ever faced.” Behnke works with other administrators in the group, including Local 802 Executive Board member Janet Axelrod, Local 802 members Nikki Abissi, Gökce Erem, Jim Lutz, Erin Paul, David Stern, Ron Wasserman and Adam Wolfe, and fellow musicians Chanell Crichlow, Ryan Fisk, Will Marinelli, Justin Nurin, Amelia Robinson and Ed Windels. “Every day until the music returns, we’re going to have a daily group video chat from 5 to 5:30 p.m.,” Behnke says. “This will be a way of keeping our mental health in check while having some fun. It is also a great way of keeping informed.” Start at the Facebook link below then click the EVENTS button and look for the group video chat. Here are some screen shots from the discussion happening at www.facebook.com/groups/nycmusicianscovid19 8 Allegro | April 2020
n NEWS & VIEWS
More screen shots from the discussion happening at
www.facebook.com/groups/nycmusicianscovid19
April 2020 | Allegro 9
n MEMBERSHIP ALERT
faQs for the un- and underinsured
the samuel J. friedman health center for the performing arts
What if i have no insurance? What is the eligibility criteria for
We see the uninsured. If you are not in the the subsiDy?
performing arts or entertainment industry, you If you are uninsured, or have a plan with a
will be charged the full cost of the visit. If you have deductible of at least $2,000 for primary care
documented proof of earnings in the industry and (i.e. underinsured), and you are a member of the
meet certain income guidelines, you may be eligible entertainment industry, you may be eligible for an
for a subsidy through The Actors Fund. Actors Fund subsidy for up to three primary care
visits per year. This means that The Actors Fund
hoW much Does it cost? will subsidize the cost of your office visit. In order
If you have insurance coverage, check your insurance to qualify for this subsidy, you must meet all of the
card or summary of benefits. It should say what a following criteria:
primary care visit or specialist visit will cost. 1. Be a member of the performing arts and
entertainment industry:
If you are underinsured—meaning you have a • Entertainment industry earnings of $3,000 a
Bronze, Silver or Gold level plan with at least a $2,000 year for three out of the last five years or
deductible for primary care—or you are uninsured, • $5,000 a year for 10 out of the last 20 years
you may be eligible for a subsidy for your visit. 2. Have documented annual income between
$24,120 and $60,000.
Only those who can provide documented proof of
earnings in the entertainment industry and meet note: if your income is below $24,120 and you live
certain income guidelines are eligible for the subsidy. in New York, you are eligible for comprehensive
Questions? Please call The Actors Fund’s Artists coverage through Medicaid or the Essential Plan. If
Health Insurance Resource Center at 917.281.5975 you live outside of New York, please contact us. If
and our counselors can provide guidance. your income is above $60,000, you will be charged
the full cost of the visit.
See below for more information on the subsidy.
If you require more than three visits per calendar
are the services at the frieDman year, additional medical and financial need
health center incluDeD in the Dues requirements will apply.
paiD through my union membership?
No. The services provided at The Friedman are i make unDer $24,120, but i am
separate from any benefits you receive as a union not eligible for meDicaiD or the
member. essential plan. What shoulD i Do?
Make an appointment with The Actors Fund’s
Artists Health Insurance Resource Center by calling
917.281.5975. Our counselors will be happy to meet
with you to help review your situation.
10 Allegro | April 2020n MEMBERSHIP ALERT
i’D like to apply for a subsiDy. Do i 2. entertainment industry income documents
have to be screeneD beforehanD? • W2 forms
Yes. Make an appointment with The Actors Fund’s • 1099 forms
Artists Health Insurance Resource Center by calling • Contracts
917.281.5975. Our counselors will be happy to meet • Pay stubs
with you to review your situation well in advance of • Union printouts
your appointment. • Letters from employer on company letterhead
showing what you were paid
The eligibility screening should take 20-30 minutes.
You must bring the necessary documents (see What if i Don’t Qualify for a subsiDy?
below). Subsidy eligibility lasts for 12 months from Make an appointment with The Actors Fund’s
the date of your first appointment. After that, you Artists Health Insurance Resource Center by calling
must re-apply. 917.281.5975. Our counselors will be happy to meet
with you to help review your situation.
What Documents Do i neeD to prove
i’m eligible for the subsiDy? What if i have meDicaiD?
There are two types of criteria to prove eligibility for We don’t accept Medicaid Managed Care plans or
a subsidy: general income criteria and entertainment “straight Medicaid.” We currently take the Essential
industry income criteria. Both must be provided. Plan Empire Blue Cross Health Plus. Please contact
the Artists Health Insurance Resource Center at
1. general income documents 917.281.5975. Our counselors can provide you
preferred documents include: with information on how to search your insurance
• Most recent income tax return and, network for providers.
• Most recent bank statement
that’s a lot to process.
if those documents aren’t available you may i’m still confuseD. help!
substitute for the previous year: Don’t worry. The Actors Fund is here to help.
• W2 forms
• 1099 forms To make an appointment at The Friedman
• Contracts Health Center for the Performing Arts, please call
• Pay stubs 212.489.1939 or visit actorsfund.org/healthcenter
• Union earnings statements; or to make an appointment online.
• Letters from employers on company letterhead
showing what you were paid For questions about your health insurance needs,
whether you are insured or not, or for guidance and
“income” is anything listed in the income support to enroll in a health insurance plan, call The
section of your 1040 tax return (first page), which Actors Fund’s Artists Health Insurance Resource
includes: Center at 917.281.5975.
• Employment and self-employment
• Unemployment
• Residuals
• Trusts
• Pensions
• Social Security benefits
• Interest
• Dividends
• Capital gains
• Alimony, and
• Rental income
April 2020 | Allegro 11n advertising
“I love this cello.”
Yo-Yo Ma,
Luis and Clark owner
ph 617-698-3034 luisandclark.com
12 Allegro | April 2020n advertising
PETER ROSENSTEIN, D.M.D., P.C.
Twenty years ago, Dr. Peter Rosenstein, 64, a New
York City Dentist, began taking trumpet lessons.
He also attended music school in Cuba. He now
plays in various Latin and Jazz ensembles and also
on Sundays for St. Cecilia at a Spanish Mass. In the
meantime he has created a small music museum
in his dental operatory featuring, among other
things, autographed trumpets by Herb Alpert and
Wynton Marsalis. Being a trumpet player, has also
given Dr. Rosenstein insight into the special dental
concerns of other brass and woodwind players.
Even the slightest change in the dentition can
affect the embouchure and therefore the ability to
play and the sound produced. As a result, he has
treated numerous musicians over the years.
We provide almost all dental
services, including implants
and periodontal therapy
www.nypoia.com
email: rosenstein@aol.com
N Y
Peter A. Rosenstein | D.M.D., P.C.
29 North Airmont Road Ste. 1 30 East 60th St. Ste. 501
Suffern, NY 10901 New York, NY 10022
t. 845.357.5002 t. 212.753.4744
f. 845.357.5181 f. 212.355.4262
WE WORK WITH MOST
MAJOR INSURANCE PLANS
www.nypoia.com l (212) 753-4744
April 2020 | Allegro 13n NEWS & VIEWS
A strategic plan
for musicians
during a crisis
crisis can understandably cause us to span of time. After that, it was mainly here’s what I will suggest for not only
WINNING ON feel anxious, worrisome and depressed,
especially if you don’t have a strategic
about recovering from the attack
and repairing the damage done.
surviving the ordeal, but growing and
even thriving as a result of it.
STAGE plan for dealing effectively with a crisis Unfortunately, we are just starting to You have a choice. A few months
like the current situation. experience the potential damage. It’s from now, you could be much better
DR. DON GREENE, PHD For more than 30 years, I’ve worked going to get worse before it gets better, as a musician or you could be an out-
Winningonstage.com with emergency first responders, SWAT and it won’t end soon. Many things of-shape musician. It will depend on
officers and disaster relief teams to cope are going to be out of your control, your mindset and how you approach
T
effectively with disasters. After the no matter what you do. However, for the unexpected time off from your
he CORONAVIRUS crisis is World Trade Center bombings on 9/11, the time being, you need to focus on usual gigs.
an indescribable disaster for I was in charge of crisis intervention in what you can control, which is your If you fall into a self-pity or victim
professional musicians in New York for Merrill Lynch. response to the situation. mentality, which is really easy to
New York. It’s compounded As bad as that was for the traders F i r s t o f a l l , fo l l o w t h e do right now, you will feel helpless.
by the simple fact that most of us on Wall Street, the present conditions recommendations of the health You won’t be able to deal well with
are not trained to deal with chaos, are worse for musicians. All of those professionals in your community the situation. That will cause you to
catastrophic change and tragedy. The terrible events happened in a short until this passes. In the meantime, become more anxious and depressed,
Dr. Don Greene, a peak performance psychologist, has taught his comprehensive approach to peak performance mastery at Juilliard, Colburn School,
New World Symphony, Los Angeles Opera Young Artists Program, Vail Ski School, Perlman Music Program, and the U.S. Olympic Training Center. During
his 32-year career, he has coached more than 1,000 performers to win professional auditions and has guided countless solo performers to successful
careers. Some of the performing artists with whom Dr. Greene has worked have won jobs with the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Concertgebouw
Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, San Francisco Opera, Montreal Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, National Symphony, Cincinnati
Symphony, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and the Dance Theatre of Harlem, to name just a few. Of the Olympic track and field athletes he worked with
up until and through the 2016 games in Rio, 14 won medals, including five gold. Dr. Greene has authored ten books including “Audition Success,”
“Fight Your Fear & Win,” “Performance Success,” and most recently “College Prep for Musicians.” In 2017, Dr. Greene was named a TED Educator
and collaborated with musician Dr. Annie Bosler to produce the TED-Ed talk “How to practice effectively…for just about anything.” The video went
viral and received over 25 million views across Facebook and YouTube. For more information, visit winningonstage.com, winninginsports.com and
collegeprepformusicians.com.
14 Allegro | April 2020n NEWS & VIEWS
and it will zap your energy. You won’t slowly and then increase your heart
feel like practicing and your skills will rate by about 20 percent by climbing
deteriorate, causing real damage. You
do not want to allow that to happen.
stairs, doing jumping jacks, or jogging
in place. However, it’s better to start by THE METROPOLITAN OPERA
You need an effective approach to the going outside. The fresh air and direct Yannick Nézet-Séguin
current situation with a plan of action. natural light will signal your body and Jeanette Lerman-Neubauer Music Director
You need to set up a calendar to brain that it’s time to wake up. Stretch
schedule your practice time and other slowly and then take a brisk walk or
activities for the next two months.
Due to the lack of structure provided
jog for at least 20 minutes. As you do,
breathe deeply.
Announces the following vacancy
SECTION
by your usual work, you need to create After you return, sit quietly for a
daily, weekly and monthly events to few minutes, so you can check in
navigate through the extra time that with how you are feeling and what’s
you’ll have. You should also establish presently on your mind. Decide on
specific goals to accompany those the most important things for you to
activities. do during the day. Write them out and
The long term goal is to play better then imagine yourself accomplishing
than you do right now. Arrange for a them. Be grateful for the opportunity
CELLO
performance online at the end of each you have to improve and count your
month to demonstrate your progress blessings that you are healthy.
to your friends and fans. You should Your new morning routine is very
also set weekly goals for your practice, important, so Just Do It. No excuses. It
with a recorded, solo performance at won’t take long for you to realize how
the end of the week to monitor your effective it can be to get you off to an
progress. On a daily basis, one of the energized start in the right frame of
best things to do is establish and follow mind and with an uplifted emotional
a routine in the morning soon after state. You need to commit to doing your
you get up. morning routine every day of the week
A good morning routine will kick except one weekend day of your choice. Audition to be held in the fall of 2020
start your day and set you up to make That’s when you need to recover and
the best of every day. The ritual will get ready for the next week.
quickly get your energy flowing after
you wake up, make your body more
In addition to your morning
routine and daily practice, there are
Resume deadline is May 1, 2020
supple and hopefully put you in a good other productive uses of the extra
mood. It involves getting up a little time you have. This is a good time to
early, but you have the time now. I’d
recommend that you begin the routine
schedule remote lessons and catch
up on e-mails, texts, phone calls and
ONLY HIGHLY QUALIFIED APPLICANTS
tomorrow morning. unfinished projects around the house.
You will need to get up about 30
minutes early. As soon as possible,
You want to keep active during this
time and not become a couch potato.
Please send one-page resume as a PDF file to:
drink at least eight ounces of water Find new rep to work on, get your
to gear up your body’s metabolism. instrument in good shape, or improve
Within a few minutes, splash cold water your practice environment. METauditioncello@metopera.org
vigorously in your face at least seven You can also explore new creative
times. This will shock your nervous
system and release adrenaline into
outlets, such as composing, drawing,
painting and writing. During these
or mail to:
your bloodstream. That will wake you few months you can also catch up on
up right away. Or, you can take a short, books that you’ve been meaning to
cool shower (not cold). The discomfort read, movies you’ve wanted to watch Rachel E. Hocking, Orchestra Office
will release endorphins, which will and touch base with friends and loved Metropolitan Opera House
make you feel better, especially after
you turn the water off.
ones, without actual contact. Also
remember to schedule pleasurable
30 Lincoln Center Plaza
Get outside within a few minutes, down time for yourself and try to keep New York, New York 10023
before you have time to talk yourself your sense of humor. I hope you stay
out of it. (Even in those areas that are safe and positive during this time.
locked down, it seems that outdoor
personal exercise with appropriate Dr. Don Greene is offering stress
An Equal Opportunity Employer
social distancing is still allowed.) If counseling to performing artists at a
the weather is really bad, you can do discounted rate. Please visit this link for
the first part of the routine indoors. more information: www.winningonstage.
Get your body supple by stretching com/covid19
April 2020 | Allegro 15It’s music to
your ears
What if you could hear
sounds you haven’t heard
in years?
What if you could protect
your greatest asset before
you lose it?
Dr. Ellen Finkelstein, Au.D., Chief
Audiologist at East Side Audiology,
specializes in difficult-to-diagnose hearing
issues. With 30 years of experience, she
has provided musicians with:
l hearing protection and
improvement solutions
l advanced, state-of-the-art
hearing aids
l comprehensive testing and
individualized care and treatment
l high regard for discretion
and privacy
We participate in most major insurance
plans. Please call for a consultation to
photo by “thepalmer” via istockphoto.com
find out how you can hear better today.
East Side Audiology
162 East 78th Street, New York, NY 10075
(212) 327-1155
Dr. Ellen Finkelstein, Au.D.
EastSideHearing@gmail.com
Doctor of Audiology www.EastSideHearing.comTo discuss your instrument or bow without obligation, please email:
info@tarisio.com
“I am incredibly grateful to Tarisio for completing
my journey of finding a lifelong performance
partner, complete with absolute honesty, care,
and kindness, always with a touch of humor.
My appreciation and respect for their treasure
trove of instruments is immense. I have and will
always treasure the friendship we have built and
look forward to many more in years to come.”
-Michelle Kim, Assistant Concertmaster
New York Philharmonic
New York www.tarisio.com Londonn EARTH DAY 2020
MEMBER TO MEMBER
‘Let’s get active and
make some noise!’
If you love the Earth,
By Marc Schmied
schmiedbass@gmail.com
a
S A musician/activist in
now’s the time
2020, I find myself celebrat-
ing the 50th anniversary of
Earth Day and hopeful for the
prospect of change through the Novem-
ber elections. In past issues of Allegro,
I’ve written about my involvement in
the climate movement with the group At the risk of stating the obvious, a key as well. How many people reading this cians are activists who use their music
350.org and what we can do as indi- goal of the environmental movement article know who their state senator to get their message across in a way that
viduals to reduce our carbon footprint. is voting Trump out of office and sup- or city council member is – and how mere words cannot. Woody Guthrie and
This time, I’d like to “zoom out” and porting a candidate with a clear vision of they vote? I didn’t know myself until Pete Seeger are two of our past elders
talk about our collective political power. how to transition away from fossil fuels getting involved as an activist. (There who showed us how to do it. We can’t
The establishment of Earth Day on and move this country quickly towards are plenty of online tools to find a list afford to be silent in this struggle. Let’s
April 22, 1970 was one year after the common sense, sustainable energy poli- of all of your representatives., including get active and make some noise!
Cuyahoga River CAUGHT ON FIRE (!), cies, such as the Green New Deal. federal, state and local. One good site is
which provided a much needed wake- With President Trump talking at www.commoncause.org/find-your-
up call to act on behalf of the health of about bringing back coal mining jobs, representative.)
the planet. The effort was spearheaded drilling for oil in our national parks and I started to become politically aware
by two senators – Republican Pete Mc- distributing paper towels as a solution (and angry) during the George W. Bush
Closkey (Republican) and Democrat to help hurricane victims, it was clear years, and after Barack Obama was
Gaylord Nelson – and inspired by the that the environmental movement was elected, I basically checked out, trust-
effectiveness of the student anti-war going to have to look elsewhere for sane ing that he would make decisions that
movement of 1960s. The establishment energy policies. The movement turned I agreed with, so there was no need to
of Earth Day led to the creation of the to state and local leaders to take action. keep tabs on his policies. This was, of
Environmental Protection Agency and Governor Cuomo has acted as a bulwark course, a mistake. Our leaders need to
the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean against Trump’s actions by banning know that we’re watching them so that
Water Act and Endangered Species Act. fracking and offshore drilling and they take our opinions into account.
All of this was done to counteract pol- announcing New York State’s resolve Getting angry and complaining about
lution, which now seems like an almost to honor the Paris Climate Accords. our politicians doesn’t accomplish any-
quaint problem compared to the threat Additionally, New York State recently thing. Communicating with and even
posed today by global climate change. passed the Climate and Community getting to know your local politicians
Fast forward 50 years later. In the Protection Act, making our state a puts you and your issue on their radar. Marc Schmied, a member of Local
interests of cronyism and profit, the leader in clean energy policy. This bill After all, they need our votes! 802 since 1996, is a bassist, wannabe
president of the United States has rolled had failed several times in the state So why should we care about climate comedian and environmental activist
back or destroyed much of this effort to senate, and its passage only became a change as musicians? Because we’re also with 350Brooklyn.org. The opinions
maintain a sustainable world. President possibility after the Democrats won a human beings. Our planet is in trouble of writers in Allegro do not necessarily
Trump has also dealt a heavy blow to majority in Albany in 2018. So while and the clock is ticking. Political pres- reflect the opinions of the staff, members
the international climate movement by our federal politicians get most of the sure is necessary to get our leaders to or officers of Local 802. To submit a story
announcing that the U.S. will withdraw attention, it is in our best interest to act. As musicians, we’re in the emotion to Allegro, send an e-mail to Allegro@
from the 2015 Paris Climate Accords. keep the pressure on our local leaders communication business. Many musi- Local802afm.org.
18 Allegro | April 2020n earth day 2020
MUSIC + SUSTAINABILITY
EARTH DAY AND VIRTUAL GREEN IN
THE AGE OF #GREENQUARANTINE
By Krissy Linacre and sustainable crafts. All sessions will
E
be hosted by members of the theatre
arth Day’s 50th anniversary and environmental community and
is right around the corner, and are open to the public. To register,
as we all practice social distanc- visit www.broadwaygreen.com/
ing to flatten the curve of the greenquarantine.
COVID-19 pandemic, we are forced to
seek creative ways to engage in social The Broadway Green Alliance com-
solidarity to celebrate this milestone in munity is made up of musicians, ac-
new, virtual ways. The Broadway Green tors, stage managers, students, patrons
Alliance is gearing up to do just that by and many others affiliated with theatre
providing learning opportunities aimed and the arts. We work with volunteer
at facilitating a Green Quarantine. For “Green Captains” in productions, the-
the past 50 years, people from around atres and schools across the country
the world have come together on April who are leading the way for green the-
22 to raise public awareness about en- atre. A Green Captain can be anyone
vironmental issues and shine a light on on the production who may facilitate
the actions that contribute to a healthier in-house recycling collections, send out
planet. Actions typically include plant- green-themed newsletters filled with
ing a tree, picking up trash in the com- eco-tips and industry best practices,
munity or even hosting a recycling drive. or even pledge to a single-use plastic-
Even though public Earth Day events free production, like Beth Malone and
have been canceled, many are quickly Transport Group did for their produc-
adapting to the new status quo in order tion of “The Unsinkable Molly Brown.”
to bring people together online this year. The Broadway Green Alliance supports
Since our mission at the Broadway all of our Green Captains as they navi-
Green Alliance is to educate, motivate gate the possibilities for implementing
and inspire the entire theatre these greener practices. GO GREEN! Local 802 member Erin Benim Mayland serves as a “Green Captain” through the
community and its patrons to adopt The Green Captain at “Hamilton” is Broadway Green Alliance at her show “Hamilton.”
environmentally friendlier practices, Local 802 member Erin Benim Mayland,
we remain committed to serving as the pictured on this page. Erin is incredibly through nyc.gov/compostproject and er from the cumulative effect of billions
theatre industry’s green anchor amidst engaged in green initiatives at her show. grownyc.org/compost/locations. of small actions, progress comes when
this challenging time. This global As a mother of a toddler, she draws in- Erin also spearheaded our participa- we pledge to adopt sustainable practic-
health crisis – like the climate crisis – spiration from Greta Thunberg and oth- tion in the D’Addario String Recycling es and find more ways to decrease our
forces us to think about the resilience, er young activists. Program with TerraCycle. Anyone from carbon footprint. What actions will you
community and hope needed in the face “I am relatively new to all of this, but Local 802 – or any musician at all – can take this Earth Day? Whether you join
of a global challenge. We encourage you I have found that picking one small ac- recycle any type of instrument string (in- us for a #GreenQuarantine virtual learn-
to get involved in the rapidly evolving tion and incorporating it into my life has cluding orchestral strings) at the Broad- ing or crafting session, make a plan to
online community of changemakers kept me inspired to add new green hab- way Green Alliance office (165 West 46th recycle your used instrument strings, go
– like www.earthdayinitiative.org its in sort of a positive feedback loop,” Street, Suite 1312, between Sixth and a day without single-use plastic, or get
– which are hosting virtual Earth Erin told us. Seventh Ave.) or at participating show inspired by what others in the commu-
Day events. Additionally, the BGA is She added, “Things that I thought dropoff points. For more information, nity are doing, the Broadway Green Alli-
offering free virtual sessions aimed at would be a pain, like composting, visit www.broadwaygreen.com. ance supports you wherever you may be
harnessing creative ways to remain turned out to be not a big deal, and that At the Broadway Green Alliance, we on your green journey.
connected to each other and the earth. was also true for ditching paper towels. encourage our community to commit
We will host weekly #GreenQuarantine Even with a toddler and a full time job, to being greener and doing better each Krissy Linacre is the assistant director
virtual classroom sessions on Zoom it feels doable, much to my surprise!” day. As climate change does not result of the Broadway Green Alliance. For more
covering a wide range of green topics Composting is available in NYC from one large negative action but rath- info, see www.broadwaygreen.com.
April 2020 | Allegro 19n NEWS & VIEWS
photo: ALEX TROESCH
JUNKO ARITA DAVID LOPATO ARUN LUTHRA DIANE MOSER GENE PERLA
JAZZ FACULTY STEP UP
It’s all about respect! We part-time faculty at the School of Jazz and Contemporary Music at the New School’s College of Performing Arts
first won a contract with Local 802 in 1998. At the time, faculty had received only one raise in over 10 years and had no health benefits,
pension or job security. Now, 22 years later, we’re set to begin our next contract negotiations.
Since our first union contract, the School of Jazz has continued to grow and thrive, has continued to enhance its reputation as one the world’s
premier jazz conservatories, and has consistently generated a profit for the New School’s bottom line. All of this while providing fair wages,
health benefits, pension payments and job security for its part-time faculty.
The success and prominence of the School of Jazz’s former students and alumni speaks to the school’s stellar reputation and to its faculty’s
excellence. Many former students and alumni are now established major artists and are Grammy nominees or winners – among them
Jazzmeia Horn, Becca Stevens, Brad Mehldau, Keyon Harrold, Larry Goldings, Cécile McLorin Salvant, James Francies, Greg Kurstin and Chris
Potter. We part-time faculty are the heart and soul of the school and are the foundation upon which this reputation and excellence are built.
Central to these upcoming negotiations are the part-time faculty’s deep commitment to the artistic and cultural traditions that we’re charged
with passing on to our students – as well as our profound dedication to our students’ education and artistic growth. Fostering a workplace
where the faculty are valued as highly skilled and dedicated artists and professionals is essential to achieving the best possible education
for the New School’s students.
The School of Jazz’s part-time faculty are united in our hope that our long record of success and dedication to our students – and to the
musical traditions we serve – will continue to provide the foundation for a contract which will further improve on the part-time faculty’s
and the New School’s many years of success and cooperation.
– Junko Arita, David Lopato, Arun Luthra, Diane Moser and Gene Perla*
*These dedicated Local 802 members serve as the shop stewards of the New School’s School of Jazz and Contemporary Music’s part-time
faculty bargaining unit. (For their bios, please visit www.NewSchool.edu/jazz/faculty/junko-arita, www.DavidLopato.com, www.ArunLuthra.
net, www.DianeMoserMusic.com and www.Perla.org.)
We asked some New School teaching artists to reflect on what they’ve learned. Get inspired by their answers on the next page..
20 Allegro | April 2020You can also read
