October has been busy at Local 47: more music, better member services, and plenty of work on the building. Somewhere in there, we even found time to discuss things other than parking. Our Hollywood Burbank Airport opening put Local 47 musicians in front of new audiences. We are having conversations with the Airport Management about building a regular music program. Finally, something at the airport worth arriving early for.

Our eight-member Live Music Group continues to develop with a view towards relationships with venues, employers, and community partners. We also met with Burbank’s grants department, explored apprenticeship opportunities with the Pullum Foundation and workforce partners, and held discussions about LA28. We want musicians working, including guitar players, provided they finish tuning before the Olympics.

LS-1 Flex gives eligible private teaching work a union pathway, with pension and health contributions under the program’s requirements. Our October seminar covered wages, benefits, and payroll costs. Teaching is real work, and it should help musicians build a more secure future.

Our Health and Welfare trustees continue improving services, electronic payments, and communications. We’re addressing contribution questions and preparing for upcoming qualifying periods.

The residuals department is up to date. That deserves recognition: our staff has worked together to keep payments moving. Unlike an accordion solo, this is something everyone wants to continue.

At the Musicians Club, income is up significantly and expenses are down. Breaking even, or generating a surplus, is possible, but it takes work. We’re reviewing a prospective new tenant lease along with contractor bids, and financing options. Nothing glamorous, but neither is changing viola strings, and both need doing. Rehearsal-room touch-ups, reused equipment, parking agreements, and utility reviews are all part of making the building work harder for members. 

Looking ahead, we’re planning free yoga with Paul Viapiano, a March 2027 International Women’s Month music festival curated by Lori Stuntz, and an April jazz festival curated by Clayton Cameron. Yoga should be especially useful for anyone carrying an accordion upstairs.

Thanks to our members, volunteers, trustees, and staff. We’re working to create more opportunities, improve benefits, and keep our resources focused where they belong: supporting musicians. And yes, viola players count. Even guitar players who bring three amps to rehearsal.

In Unity,

John Acosta