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This week, I finally got around to doing something that I've wanted to do for quite some time: I became a member of Local 76-493, the Musicians' Union. In Seattle, the Union isn't as strong or influential as in other cities, so joining up is partially a symbolic gesture. As bigger and bigger examples of corporate malfeasance splash across the headlines every day, joining a labor union for my livelihood seems more and more important. I know that many readers will quickly point to examples of corruption in organized labor, but labor unions have historically served an important role in protecting workers from exploitation and more. As they grow weaker over time, the scales have tipped radically in favor of big corporations and against workers for many years in this country, and the impact has been felt by millions.

A few weeks ago, I watched this classic advertisement for the International Ladies Garment Workers' Union (it's part of the original broadcast of the Star Wars Holiday Special). I was amazed by how much things have changed in the last 30 years. Not only does the idea of paid advertisements for a Workers' Union seem quaint and vaguely alien, so does the very notion of American-made clothes!

I would welcome a stronger musicians' union in Seattle, not only to ensure better wages for gigs, but also to foster better competition for those gigs. Venues and promoters get what they pay for, and if they are bringing in live music for free (or less than free in some cases), they're probably not getting the best music available, and neither is the audience.

The history of the Musicians' Union in Seattle is long and storied. Local 76 was originally chartered in 1898. At that time, the union was all-white, and African-American musicians were effectively (and completely) prohibited from performing within the limits of Downtown Seattle. Local 493, the Negro Musicians’ Union, was formed in 1913 and the two were finally combined in 1956.

For now, I'm looking forward to contributing what I can to Local 76-493, and taking advantage of its services to find more opportunities to perform. If you're looking for music for a party, wedding or any other event, you can book me through Local 76-493!