Symphonic Shorts

Where�s My Paycheck?

Having problems getting paid for a gig? Here are some suggestions for what to do.

Under a Union Contract

Call the Local. We will take care of it for you, including hiring lawyers if necessary.
If you use the new LS-1 contract, please call us for a copy of the suggested contract rider to make enforcement easier.

Not on a Union Contract

Take advantage of the Union Privilege Legal Service. You can get a free 30-minute consultation with a lawyer, and many problems can be solved during the consultation. And any necessary legal work beyond the free consultation is at a discount. Visit www.unionprivilege.org or call (888) 993-8886.
Call the Local. While we can�t guarantee that we can help, sometimes a phone call from someone else might help. We can also warn other musicians about �problem� employers, and perhaps put collective pressure on them to get you paid.

Protect Yourself Next Time

File a contract. Call us if you need blank contracts, contract rider language, or help getting the employer to sign them.
Get Organized! If you regularly work for an employer, you and your colleagues can be better protected by a union contract negotiated specifically for that employer and in force full time, without having to get something signed for each gig. Call us for more information.

Organizing for a Union Contract

Step 1: Get majority support for a union contract (usually by signing cards that only the Union, and NEVER the employer, will see).

Step 2: Request Union recognition

Employer can voluntarily grant recognition.
Employer can agree to let a neutral third party (clergy, etc.) count cards to verify majority support.
National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) can conduct an election where employees vote whether or not to be represented by Union.

Step 3: Negotiate contract. Employer is compelled by law to negotiate in good faith with the Union.

TIPS: It is illegal for an employer to:

Threaten: to fire you, to close down, etc.
Interrogate: to ask you if you are voting for the Union, etc.
Promise: to give you raises or benefits for voting against the Union, etc.
Spy: to attend meetings to see who supports the Union, etc.

Employers cannot change conditions of employment during a campaign to secure Union recognition.

News & Announcements

Ballet Gamonet has been formed by former Miami City Ballet choreographer Jimmy Gamonet De Los Heros. They have received a $300,000 grant from the city of Miami for rehearsal and performance space. The inaugural season is scheduled for 2005.