Vol. II, No.3 PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY AMERICAN GUILD OF MUSICAL ARTISTS, Inc., A. F. of L. June, 1948

OFFICERS OFFICES

LA WRENCE TIBBETT New York 18 President 276 West 43rd Street CONRAD THIBAULT Telephone: LOngacre 5·7508, 9, 10 1st Vice·President • JAMES PEASE Los Angeles 2nd Vice·President 1. B. KORNBLUM ASTRID VARNEY 6331 Hollywood Boulevard 3rd Vice·President Telephone: Hillside 5121 LEOPOLD SACHSE • 4th Vice-President San Franscisco JASCHA HEIFETZ THEODORE HALE 5th Vice-President 216 Pine Street Telephone: Sutter 0855 ELIZABETH HOEPPEL Recording Secretary • FREDERICK JAGEL Philadelphia Treasurer G. GILBERT MASON 207 Walnut Place HYMAN R. FAINE Executive Secretary Telephone: Lombard 1187 BELMONT KINDLER • Assistant to Executive Secretary Chicago 1 BEN MEYERS BERNARD W. ZUEBERT Financial Secretary 188 W. Randolph Street Telephone: State 0585 • • JAFFE & JAFFE BELMONT KINDLER Counsel Editor

AGMA Speal{.s To Producers

Producers, like most human beings, undoubtedly have their or two exceptions, fail to recognize that such problems exist, individual problems. We hope these problems will not become and represent a mutual challenge. aggravated if we venture to discuss with some of them the It would also benefit some producers if in their relationship sentiments of a substantial portion of our membership. with AGMA, they manifested a more enlightened attitude, and omitted from their repertoire concepts which are outdated Artists Must Eat by modern standards of labor relations. Any effort to frus­ trate AGMA will meet failure, because a union in which the In their treatment of artists, a good deal remains to be democratic process is kept alive and functioning remains im­ desired. The illusion still persists that given an opportunity mune to attack. The expectation, for example, that concessions to sing, dance or offer a recital, an artist desires little else. might be extracted from AGMA through the benefit of certain If one develops the unfortunate habit of eating three meals ill-fated legislation has failed to materialize, and represented daily, and satisfying the landlord fairly regularly, he might a tendency bereft of advantage to all concerned. well be accused of harbouring the 'improper attitude' toward his art. Years ago, aspiring young artists were told that in order to succeed, they should suffer, that deprivation pro· Concern for Culture duced will power and ambition. But even in 1948, the mere mention of the word 'money' is considered vulgar, and artists Further, though AGMA's primary obligation is toward its are sometimes told to be more concerned with 'art'. Will pro· membership, we also confess a concern for the expansion of ducers, we wonder, put themselves to the same test? American culture. AGMA members, we are happy to report, are becoming If, at any time, producers wish to discuss matters of mutual increasingly concerned with important questions such as in­ concern in a friendly and cooperative atmosphere, they will creased employment, the inclusion of social security provi­ find AGMA willing and anxious to join hands in finding an sions into contracts, pension funds, etc. Producers, with one answer to the solution of our common problems. The Job Outlook Members Vote on New Constitution We list below for the benefit of AGMA mem'bers those companies which accord­ AGMA's new Constitution, which was members who shall have been nominated ing to our present knowledge, plan to adopted by delegates at the Annual Con­ according to the procedure outlined in offer performances on a weekly basis vention held last January, has been the new Constitution. during the coming season. sent to the membership for a referendum Section 11: Nominations. The basis If you wish you may communicate vote. upon which the Board of Governors will with the company in which you are in­ You have until June 30th to return be enlarged is described. The division terested. It should be noted, however, your vote to the AGMA office, after of AGMA membership into geographic that unless indicated, a Basic Agree­ which tellers appointed by the Board of areas, and the eligibility of a nominee ment has not yet been signed with the Governors will tabulate the ballots. Re­ in a specific area based upon a minimum producer. sults of the balloting will be printed in number of 25 in his professional cat­ We will send members notices of aud­ the September AGMAZINE. egory assures that each locality will itions as soon as the necessary inform­ have a sufficient voice in AGMA's affairs ation is received at the AGMA office. Meanwhile, you will find below some to guarantee proper representation. 1.) Metropolitan Opera Ass'n., Inc. provisions of the new Constitution as Further, the direct participation of all 40th Street and Broadway adopted by the Convention delegates and chapters in nominations and elections New York, N.Y. proposed to the membership. corrects a previous imperfection where­ Artistic Director: Edward P. Article Ill: Classifications by out of town members felt that Johnson Section 1: The heretofore employed AGMA's problems should not be con­ Company plans about eighteen "Junior" classification for soloists has sidered exclusively by New York mem­ weeks in New York beginning been abolished, as has the term "Associ­ bers. probably in November, followed ate" insofar as it referred to citizenship by a road tour; basic agreement qualifications. Associate members may Article VIII: Convention being negotiated. now acquire an Active status within a Section 1: Annual Meeting. An An­ 2.) National Grand Opera Co. one year period, provided of course, that nual Convention will supplant the An­ 1005 Carnegie Hall they have appeared in 25 performances. nual Meeting which took place hereto­ New York, N.Y. Chorus and Ballet members may secure fore. The Annual Meeting when lack­ Producer: George D'Andria an Active classification, the purpose of ing a quorum had to be postponed, Company plans two week engage­ which is elaborated upon in Section 3 of members were thereby inconvenienced, ment in Caracas, Venezuela in this article. and the union was saddled with addi­ August, 1948; basic agreement has Section 3: Voting. An obvious weak­ tional expenses. The presenting of urgent been signed. ness of the old Constitution has been matters to the member,ship was thus 3.) N.Y. City Center of Music and corrected in that Chorus and Ballet delayed, with no assurance of a quorum Drama, Inc. members are now accorded the right of at the postponed Annual Meeting. A 130 West 56th Street voting provided that they have passed convention eliminates the problems men­ New York, N.Y. the requisite mentioned in Section 1. tioned above. In addition, all unions A rtistic Director: Laszlo Halasz which have developed and matured now Article V: Government Company plans about ten weeks hold conventions, instead of "Annual in Fall beginning in Septem!ber, Section 2: Number of Board. The Meetings. and five weeks in Spring; basic Board of Governors will be enlarged Section 4: The procedure for the agreement being negotiated. from its present 27 members to afford nomination of delegates again provides 4.) New Manhattan Opera Ass'n., Inc. democratic representation to all local­ for the AGMA membership being rep­ 545 Fifth Ave. ities and categories of AGMA member­ resented on a completely democratic New York, N.Y. ship. basis. A minimum of two delegates Producer: Norman Schur Section 3: Board Rules. The enlarged from each professional category, for ex­ Company plans tour of "La Tra­ Board will result in more frequently se­ ample, is assured at the convention. mata," length as yet indeterminate; curing a quorum of 7 for Board meet­ basic agreement has been signed. ings, thus affording the opportunity to Article IX: Meetings 5.) San Carlo Opera Co. expedite more efficiently matters affect­ Section 1: Although quarterly mem­ 1697 Broadway ing the membership. Board members in bership meetings have heretofore been New York, N.Y. San Francisco or New Orleans, for ex­ held in New York City, it is an innova­ Producer: ample, since they probably could not be tion in out of town areas. Membership Fortune Gallo present at Board meetings, will be able problems will now be discussed in a Producer: Fortune Gallo to act by proxy. planned and organized fashion, with Company plans tour, length as yet Section 8: Voting. AGMA officers each area acquiring the benefit of a indeterminate, beginning probably may now include out of town Active certain degree of democratic self-rule. in October; basic agreement being negotiated. 6.) San Francisco Opera Ass'n. about September 13th; basic Company plans ten week Fall tour War Memorial House agreement signed. of "Romeo and Juliet" in English San Francisco, California 7. ) Charles L. Wagner beginning in October and Novem­ Artistic Director: Gaetano Merolla 511 Fifth Avenue ber, and ten week Spring tour of Company plans approximately New York, N.Y. "Barber of Seville" in English; seven week Fall season beginning Producer: Charles L. Wagner basic agreement being negotiated. 2 AGMA's New National Officers

CONRAD THIBAULT JAMES PEASE ASTRID VARNAY LEOPOLD SACHSE 1st V ice-President 2nd V ice-President 3rd V ice-President 4th Vice-President

Mr. Leopold Sachse, decided to grant Four New Officers in pri'nciple the request of the German Members In Benefits artists, but in order to expedite action which would be taken, to concentrate Selected By Board all efforts on one theater, namely the Will Receive Insurance Four new vacancies were filled among Hamburg State-Opera, thereby establish­ Artists who offer their talents at bene­ AGMA's officers by the Board of Gov­ ing a close relationship between AGMA ernors at a recent meeting. fit perfomances will now receive both and the Hamburg State-Opera. AGMA accident and death insurance on the Conrad Thibault, formerly fourth r:an be certain that the forthcoming vice-president, was appointed to the first basis of an agreement to be made by material help will be distributed in Alan Corelli, Executive Secretary of vice-presidency to fill the post created Hamburg in a democratic way. The by Norman Cordon's resignation. Theatre Authority, Inc., with individu­ German Union wrote: "We promise al producers. J ames Pease, formerly a Board mem­ that no former Nazi shall receive any­ ber, was selected to be second vice-presi­ thing from an American donation." What is Theatre Authority? dent when Julius Huehn resigned. Members of the Committee to Aid the Astrid Varnay, recently elected as a Theatre Authority is the entertain­ Hamburg State-Opera are:-Donald ment clearance bureau for organizations Board member, will replace Edward Dame, Elizabeth Hoeppel, Frederick Harris as AGMA's third vice-president. which sponsor benefits, and has for J agel, Maurice Kostroff, Georgia Stand­ many years protected artists whose Mr. Harris, who resigned, has been in­ ing, Conrad Thibault, and Lawrence vited to join the Advisory Board. talents might have been exploited by Tibbett. unscrupulous individuals. Leopold Sachse, formerly a Board "Thank you." member, will occupy the fourth vice­ The insurance plan, which every Committee Chairman sponsor will be obligated to sign when presidency, the position heretofore held LEOPOLD SACHSE by Conrad Thibault. receiving clearance, provides for I) ac­ cident lia'bility insurance of $50.00 per week up to a maximum of 10 weeks Six New Board depending on the artist's disability, and 2) payment of $1,000.00 to the bene­ AGMA Adopts Members Appointed ficiary in the event that an artist meets with death. Hamburg State Opera The following Agma Members have been appointed by the Board of Govern­ Transportation Covered We print below a letter to our mem­ ors to fill vacancies occurring on the These payments will be made not only bers from Leopold Sachse, AGMA's Board: if the artist suffers an accident while new fourth vice-president: Lucy Brown replaces J ascha Heifetz in the theatre where he is performing, "The German Union of Theatrical until Dec. 31st, 1949. but also encompasses any liability the Artists (Deutsche Buehnengenossen­ Frank Chapman occupies until Dec. artist may experience in transportation chaft) in the British zone, Mr. Christo­ 31st, 1950, the post vacated by Astrid to and from the performance. phory, has asked Mr. Lauritz Melchior Varnay. We should like to remind AGMA for addresses of organizations which Arthur Kent fills Leopold Sachse's members that the benefits mentioned would be able and willing to send ma­ position until Dec. 31st, 1949. above may be obtained only if the per­ terial help to German artists. At Mr. Marek Windheim takes the place of formance has secured the approval of Melchior's suggestion, the German Un­ Mack Harrell until Dec. 31st, 1950. Theater Authority, Inc., 545 Fifth Ave­ ion communicated with Mr. Lawrence Tilda Morse replaces Jerome Robbins nue, New York City. If you are in Tibbett, President of AGMA. until Dec. 31st, 1949. doubt as to whether the engagement has In a recent meeting, the Board of Dino Yannapolous fills James Pease's received proper clearance, AGMA will Governors of AGMA, upon a proposal by vacancy until Dec. 31st, 1948. be glad to assist you. 3 MONEY AND MUSIC AGMA Wins U. S. On February 1st, there appeared com­ siderations and appointments influence ments in the New York Times by Olin artistic standards to their detriment. Opera Administration Downes under the provocative heading However, three American cities, Balti­ After having attempted for a year "Money and Music_" Since our mem­ more, Indianapolis and San Francisco, and a half to arbitrate the matter, AGMA bers have from time to time expressed do give a fraction of their tax receipts was recently granted a claim of over $19,000 against the United States Opera strong opinions on the subject, we are to their orchestras, in exchange for a Company by the American Arbitration presenting to them excerpts from Mr. given number of performances that the Downes' article. We hope that after orchestras provide at special rates for Association. reading it, you will let us know to what the benefit of the citizens. Is not this a This claim represented compensation extent you agree or disagree with Mr. measure which could be applied else­ due AGMA choristers on the basis of Downes' sentiments. where? contracts entered into by Edward Baga­ rozy on behalf of the United States Financial Sponsors Needed Opera Company, and had its beginning "The negotiations that customarily oc­ Encouraging Examples of Support in November, 1946, when Mr. Bagarozy cur at this time of the year, regarding "A step in this direction has been signed a Basic Agreement with AGMA. players' contracts for the next season taken in making the Metropolitan Opera No Security Deposit are now in process. These negotiations House free of taxation. A gesture in the Although the agreement stipulated turn upon the ever-present problem of same general direction, which has had that the company would place with union wage scales and the necessary very fruitful results, was the one by AGMA a security deposit for two weeks financial provisions of the orchestra in which the City Center of Drama and of artists under contract, the deposit was meeting them. Everyone knows that Music functions rent-free. The per­ not forthcoming. Consequently, rehear­ orchestras and operatic institutions formances of both opera and symphony sals did not begin when called for in which give important repertory are not given there, and the new audiences in contracts, and when sufficient bond was able to balance their budgets from the the lower economic brackets to whom subsequently deposited, the company as intake at the box office, even when there the prices of seats make these very in­ a result owed back pay to the choristers. is a season of full houses. All the or­ teresting performances available, have When these obligations were not met, chestras have sources of income upon more than justified the mild degree of the chorus members were paid from the which they rely aside from the sale of civic support. This particular civic en­ security deposit. This payment was not the seats for the concerts. Even so, un­ terprise has also proved suggestive to replenished, and when Mr. Bagarozy less a commercial sponsor for radio other cities. It is so much in line with continued rehearsals, and was unable broadcasting of the concerts material­ modern developments, that it does not to pay the choristers, AGMA members izes, the orchestra can count upon an­ seem that its spread over ever wider were directed to withdraw from the com­ nual deficits which vary according to areas can be prevented. Sooner or later, pany. circumstances. one would say, and sooner rather than Meanwhile, Mr. Ottavio Scotto, the later, especially when boom days come Union Wages Important U.S. Opera Company's Artistic Direc­ to an end, we must move in this direc­ tor, had brought to America a group of "Into the reckoning come the corres­ tion. ponding rates that the unions make for European artists. No AGMA contracts Cultural Progress Possible the economic good of their members and were filed, and, of course, AGMA did the necessity for frequent readjustment "The number of private purses which not receive any additional security de­ of the wage scales as a consequence_ can be opened for orchestras and opera posit for them. The status of the AGMA The players in a symphony orchestra houses will become less. The city can choristers remained unchanged. have special problems to meet. They subsidize the orchestra as it does its art AGMA then learned that a week's per­ cannot count upon a full year's engage­ museums or other institutions which formance of opera would be presented in ment. The biggest item is, far and away, minister to the public need. And this Chicago, ostensibly with a company other the wages of the players, who are musi­ can be done without in any way affect­ than the United States Opera. It was cians of special skill and who like every­ ing--except for the better-the artistic obvious to AGMA that the "new" com­ one else have to secure a living for qualifications of the organizations con­ pany represented old wine in new bot­ themselves and their families. Those cerned. No city government would think, tles, and the individuals financing it were who pay the deficits feel, not un­ if it were at all intelligent, of attempting unable to assume the five week con­ naturally, that they should get every pos­ to control the methods or standards of tractual obligations of Mr. Bagarozy. sible accommodation where salaries are the orchestras or other establishments In accordance with the provision of concerned from the musical union. The involved in such an undertaking, Sub­ our Basic Agreement, AGMA repeatedly members of 'the union have also the sidy would be granted on the basis, attempted to arbitrate the above claim, right to a decent living in return for perhaps, of a stated amount first raised and patient but confident persistence the special services which are the fruit by supporters of the orchestra, to which brought a justified victory. The validity of their talent and experience. And the the city would contribute a stated of the security deposit and AGMA art­ economic state of the nation and the amount from taxes. The great orchestras ists' contract clauses in our Basic Agree­ costs of living vary almost from month would function then as they do now, ment again was sustained. to month, if not from day to day. with, however, a firmer economic base After the Arbitration award, partial to rest upon. It is time that American payment was made by AC~..1A to chorus No Politics Necessary communities, cities, states gave serious members from a small security deposit "There is, perhaps, the feeling that to thought to this principle, which can op­ remaining in our office, and AGMA grant subsidies from city or state gov­ erate, in one form or another, for the will now resort to legal means to obtain ernments would be to let political con- great good of music." the balance of the money due members. 4 Choreography for Television Television News This article contains interesting injormation jor AGMA's dance members. it AGMA members will be encouraged is reprinted jrom "D,ance Magazine" with the permission oj Miss Judy Dupu~, to learn that proposals for a television Director oj "Radio Events, Inc." and oj Mr. Neil Reynolds oj the General Electnc contract have been presented to the Company, Schenectady, N.Y. major networks by the 4A's Television Devotees of the dance seem to feel Specially Designed Committee, composed of representatives that the dance is ideal for television. Choreography of Actors Equity, AFRA, AGMA, Television does open up a new stage for Each program telecast has empha­ AGV A, Chorus Equity, and Screen Ac­ the dance but the average routine for sized the need for a choreography espe­ tors Guild. the ballet, night club or theater dance is cially designed for television. Basic tele­ These proposals were based upon ma­ too rapid and covers too large a per­ vision dance technique should conform terial gathered over a considerable pe­ formance area. However, video dance to these factors: riod of time from members who had programs indicate that the dance, to be The dance routine should be planned performed in the television field. During made good television, requires a new for camera performance in a confined the past year, when the 4A's Sub-Com­ choreography arranged to conform with space, limiting sweeping horizontal mittee on Wages and Working Condi­ the rules and regulations of the video movement. tions met to formulate proposals to the medium. Primarily, this means dances The choreography of the ballet, folk networks, AGMA was represented by designed for close-space performance dance or chorus routine should be de­ William Horne, Belmont Kindler, Kath­ and restricted vertical movement, with signed for close-group action and for ryn Lee, and Beatrice Tompkins. calculated action planned for the cam­ camera close-up. era. To televise the dance requires ex­ Vertical movement, such as tossing Resolution Protects Members pert cameramen who can pan smoothly a partner into the air or jumping, can­ AGMA's Board of Governors, in order and continuously while on the air and at not be covered adequately by the tele­ to protect AGMA members performing the same time keep the dancer always vision camera without perfectly timed in television while a collective bargain­ in focus. rehearsals and performers adhering to ing agreement is being negotiated, re­ the routine established. What generally cently passed the following resolution: Camera Coordination happens even in long shots is a momen­ "RESOLVED that effective May 1st, Necessary tary view of disembodied feet or torso 1948, every contract, commitment or un­ until the dancer lands into the picture. derstanding between a member of the This need for especially planned dance This adds an unintentional grotesque American Guild of Musical Artists and routines for television has been em­ note to a difficult and probably well­ his employer, which relates to the per­ phasized again and again. When a ball­ executed step. The director of the dance formance of television services, shall room dance program was attempted, to must consider this restriction in con­ contain the following provision ver­ show the graceful movement and rhythm forming the art of the dance to televi­ batim: of the dance, it was found that the fast SIOn. 'The obligations of the Artist un­ whirls and dips were hard to follow Solo dancers are easier for the cam­ der this contract, with respect to tele­ on close-ups. Consequently, the pro­ era to follow even with modified night vision, are subject and subordinate to ducer had to resort to many long shots club or stage routines. When they are the Artists' primary obligation to the to hold the full figures of the dancers. trained with special television routines American Guild ~of Musical Artists, As a result much of the dance nuances they should be definitely video appeal­ and nothing in this contract shall ever were lost. ing. be so construed as to interfere with Costuming is important. Costumes the Artist's prior duty to abide by the Acrobatic Dancing should lend grace and beauty to the American Guild of Musical Artists' Effective dance and should accent the flavor of orders, rules and regulations concern­ About one-third of the dance pro­ the music. Costuming a chorus requires ing any provision in this contract to grams offered over the Schenectady particular attention. What may look the contrary. When the collective station were rated as good by teleview­ pleasing on the studio floor may be bargaining agreement governing the ers. Tap, ballet, square dances, jitterbugg­ turned into burlesque by the intimate Artist's television services is entered ing and acrobatic dancing were parti­ television picture. into, this contract shall thereupon be­ cularly enjoyed. Acrobatic dancing can Dance programs must be rehearsed come subject to such collective bar­ be televised effectively since the danc­ before the cameras. The cameramen gaining agreement.' er's movements are usually spectacular should know the routine as well as the "Any member who signs a con­ and performed on the proverbial "dime." artists so that they can anticipate the tract in violation of this rule shall be Both lighting and stage sets are im­ dancers' movements. deemed guilty of conduct unbecom­ portant factors in any television pro­ Television and the dance present a ing a member and shall be subject to gram but lighting is even more im­ mutual challenge The television pro­ appropriate disciplinary action." portant for modeling, silhouetting and ducer must evolve a camera technique Carrying the ball during forthcoming highlighting dancers. The proplem of to catch all the nuances of choreo­ 4A negotiations with the telecasters spotlighting dancers must be solved. graphic movement; the dance finds its will be Hyman R. Faine, AGMA's Na­ Lightmen must be rehearsed and cued challenge in the limited field of the tele­ tional Executive Secretary. for every dance for good picture re­ vision camera. What is certain to evolve Members wishing advice concerning sults to prevent light flares from getting is a new dance form, one that is inti­ a special problem should communicate into pictures when cameras are being mated, personalized and acceptable to with the AGMA office. Additional in­ panned rapidly to follow a dance. Light­ all members of the family-the viewing formation will be furnished in the near men must be on their toes to avoid this. audience. future. 5 San Francisco Sets Example AGMA Members In previous issues of AGMAZINE, we have asked members to send us an occasional article, firstly, to make the magazine to as great an extent as possible Disciplined occasional article, and secondly, so that we might know what is happening in the In recent months, instances have oc­ AGMA chapters outside of New York. curred where AGMA members have per­ Imagine our delight when we received the following letter from San Francisco. formed either with a producer who was We think it represents a splendid accomplishment, and are therefore printing the on the AGMA Unfair List, or with a letter in full. producer who had not signed a Basic Agreement with AGMA. "In the March issue of AGMAZINE to the benefit to be derived from these On three occasions, these violations there appeared two very interesting meetings and the necessity of maintain­ were brought before the AGMA Board articles, one, a report of the first An­ ing them in order that it may function of Governors, and the AGMA members nual Convention held in New York City, in an executive capacity when it comes disciplined in accordance with the evi­ January 8, 9 and 10, and the other, a to negotiations and contracts. It is dili­ dence presented at the hearings. The condensation of the report of the Na­ gently endeavoring to work out a solu­ Board action taken in the case of the tional Executive Secretary, Hyman R. tion whereby the members will all be AGMA members mentioned below should Faine. Mr. Faine spoke at length about reached with the minimum sacrifice of act as a deterrent to those artists offered the convention, the changes in the con­ personal free time. During the off­ an engagement by a non-AGMA pro­ stitution accomplished during the ses­ season, November through February, it ducer. sions, opera contracts, agreements, and is the plan to hold short business meet­ 1) Robert Falk-Performed with the the Taft-Hartley Law and its effect on ings followed by a speaker or a brief New York Civic Opera Co., William our activities. Finally, he spoke strongly program. Reuterman, director. This company has in favor· of more increased activity on The San Francisco Chapter of AGMA 'been on the AGMA Unfair List since the part of the members in AGMA's af­ has a three-fold purpose in view of its 1944. Fined $50.00, and suspended for fairs and, I quote, "Although requests desire to further opportunities of young six months. have been made to the membership to musicians in their various fields, to en­ 2) Pasquale Fortunato-Performed write letters, articles, criticisms, sug­ courage the advancement of all musi­ with the American National Grand gestions, none have been forthcoming." cal enterprises in this geographic loca­ Opera Co., said company not having With this fact in thought, we on the tion, and to so establish itself that it signed a Basic Agreement with AGMA. West Coast thought AGMAZINE readers will be capable of providing and sup­ Suspended until such time as his ap­ would like to know what is being ac­ plying all the musical talent necessary plication for re-admission into AGMA complished here, and are taking this for the presentation of first-class music­ is approved by the Board of Governors. opportunity to give you some of the al entertainment in Northern California. 3) Joseph Maimone-Performed with highlights of our undertakings in North­ With this view of stimulating inter­ the New York Civic Opera Co., William ern California. est in AGMA and its activities, the San­ Reuterman director. Fined $100.00, Following the return of the San Fran­ Francisco Opera Chorus sponsored a fine being suspended provided a similar cisco delegates from the Annual Con­ social evening entitled "Song and Dance" violation does not occur. If it does, the vention, a full report was made to the at the California Club in San Francisco. fine will be reinvoked. membership. Election of officers for April 9. A committee headed by Paul 1948 was held at the February meeting Schagen was appointed, and the result with the herein named committee ap­ more than justified all their efforts. 4A's Plan proved by majority vote: Chairman, Over 400 people attended the dance Benjamin Martin; Executive Committee, and enjoyed the varied program prepar­ Max Lorenzini and Edwin Vannucci; ed. Under the leadership of its chorus Unity Conference Secretary, Eloise Farrell and Treasurer, master, Kurt Herbert Adler, the San Sister unions affiliated with the As­ Robin Nelson. Francisco Opera Chorus presented the sociated Actors and Artistes of Amer­ Anvil Chorus from Verdi's II Trova­ ica will meet from June 21st to June Since the nucleus of active member­ 25th to explore the possibility of form­ ship is made up of the members of the tore, the opening of Act II from Pagli­ acci and the Cigarette Chorus (from ing one entertainment union. San Francisco Opera Association cho­ The desirability of such a merger is rus, regular monthly meetings were held Carmen. Desire Ligeti, bass, Giovanna DiTano, soprano and Rudolph Picardi, mutually shared by many artists and the first Monday in each month com­ union officials, and we will keep members mencing last December. With the in­ pianist, contributed their services add­ ing to the enjoyment of the guests. It informed of news regarding this promis­ auguration of rehearsals for the coming ing development. 1948 season beginning March 8, our is gratifying to report this first venture meetings were changed to the first Sun­ a financial as well as social success. day of the month, but as pointed out in AMERICAN GUILD OF MUSICAL FILE YOUR CLAIM PROMPTLY Mr. Faine's report, difficulties are be­ ARTISTS INC. SAN FRANCISCO This will remind members that ing experienced in the lack of attend­ CHAPTER claims for breach of contract ance. This is somewhat understandable Publicity must be filed with AGMA no later inasmuch as the most active members Frederick D. Fraser" than two weeks after the date fo such a breach. are busily engaged five or six days a Congratulations, San Francisco! week in regular employment while re­ If a claim is filed after the two hearsing three nights a week. Chicago! Los Angeles! New Orleans! week period, AGMA may be un­ New York! Philadelphia! Are you able to be of any assistance_ Fortunately, our Committee is alert blushing? 6 1947-1948 Listing New Members Of AGMA Companies In AGMA's Ranks The artists listed below have recent­ The following companies have signed New Jersey Grand Opera Co. ly joined AGMA. We welcome them in­ Basic Agreements with AGMA for the New Manhattan Opera Assn., Inc. to our ranks, and hope that after this 1947-48 season. Members are warned New Orleans Opera House Assn., Inc. preliminary introduction they will be­ that they may not perform elsewhere Opera for College, Inc. come active members. If we can help unless that particular company has Opera Guild of Miami in this respect let us know. signed a Basic Agreement or secured a Opera Theatre, Inc. Allen, Priscilla Leavitt, Gerard waiver from AGMA. Opera Tonight Altman, Rita Leon, Sonia Orchestral Association, Inc. Annaloro, Antonio Lockway, Gertrude OPERA Baroumis, Manuel Logue, Betty Ann Permanent Committee to Help Italian Barrie, Barbara Luman, N. Carl Aframerican Opera Foundation Orphans Bernaducci, Daniel Markovic, Paul. M. American Opera Co., Inc. Pittsburgh Opera, Inc. Bob, Thelma Marlowe, Thomas Associated Artists of Grand Opera Popular Price Opera Co., Inc. Braggiotti, Mario Martel, Fernand Atlantic Opera Co. Breaux, Marc Charles McGurl, Bernard J. Recreation Promotion & Service, Inc. Brody, Joan Morris, Robert Bridgeport Opera Guild Rhode Island Conservatory of Music Buberniak, Danilo Nadell, Estelle C. Z. & L. Co. (Medium & Telephone) Rochester Grand Opera Co. Canario, Rosa Natelson, June Capitol Opera Co. San Carlo Opera Co. Canto, Humberto Natzka, Oscar Central City Opera House Assn., Inc. San Francisco Opera Association Carmichael, Phyllis Nelson, Marcus 1. Chautauqua Institution Carr, Nancy O'Hara, Carole Symphony Society of San Antonio Castello, John Palomares, Jose A. Chicago Artists Association, Inc. Trenton Opera Assn. Cavalucci, Ralph Panaieff, Michel Chicago Opera Co., Inc. Verdi Grand Opera Co. Colman, Rebe Parker, Sherry Cincinnati Summer Opera Assn., Inc. Victor Grand Opera Co. Conte, Anna Parker, Virginia Comm. for Orphans & Needy Aged of Charles Wagner Crumley, Kenneth Patti, Irene Ann Italy Cunningham, Orman Petrak, Rudolf BALLET Curtis, James Petrova, Vassilka Community Opera Society of Scranton Damon, Cathryn Piccini, Carmen Connecticut Opera Assn. Ballet Intime Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo Di Genova, Edward Rae, Mata Hollywood Bowl Assn. Di Stefani, Guiseppe Rhodes, Michael International Grand Opera Co. Ballet Society Duffy, Downer M. Ross, Glynn International Opera Co. Ballet Theatre, Inc. Dunkel, Nina Sackett, Jewel Dussom, M. (Somers) Savona, Tina International Royal Grand Opera Co. Katherine Dunham's Bal Negre Martha Graham Dance Co. Einstein, Doris E. Shawn, Dorothy Lemonade Opera Ferriari, Iris Siegle, Laurence W. Manhattan Grand Opera Co. Markova-Dolin Co. Forgues, Marie Jose Silvain, Graciela Metropolitan Opera Assn., Inc. New Dance Group Studio, Inc. Frankel, Emily Slade, Renee Y. & San Francisco Civic Ballet Assn. Frazier, Jane E. Smith, Slater N. City Center of Music Drama, Fredericks, Kay Smolover, Raymond Inc. Slavenska Ballet Variante Charles Weidman Co. Gardner, June Speights, Dorothy New York Grand Opera Co., Inc. Genovart, Simon. Spiro, Robert Nazzaro Opera Co. CONCERT Golden, Mary Jean Spottswood, Donald P. National Grand Opera Co. S. S. Calypso Granda, Alessandro Stewart, Harry Greer, Norris Stich, Teresa A. New England Opera Co. Broadcast Music, Inc. Guiliani, Pino Sundsten, Kaja Gunter, Gertrude Teakle, Spencer Handwerger, Robert Theard, Harry L., Jr. Hart, Ted Traver, Sharry Hicks, Jimmy O. Trehy, John J. Hobson, Jane Uppman, Theodor Jackson, Brooks Vanoff, Nicholas Jones, Clifford Reis Vazquez, Roland Karlin, Rita Vischer, Joanna Kelley, Norman D. Weakley, Peggy Kelly, John White, Andrew B. Klemm, Elizabeth White, Madelina Doris Konzal, Jack Warren Williams, Elizabeth Lake, Suzanne Yongue, Charles P.

ARE YOU MOVING? It is important that you notify the AGMA office of a change of address. Unless you do so, not only will you be unable to know what is going on at AGMA, but you may be deprived of a job should we find it necessary to communicate "I told you to have that beard off" Courtesy Musical America with you by mail.

7 AGMA's Unfair List Mascagni Opera Guild Suspended AGMA Members The companies and producers list.ed below are on AGMA's Unfair List. Un· On Unfair List The following artists were suspended der no circumstances may AGMA mem· After a thorough investigation of its by AGNIA'S Board of Governors at a bers perform with any of these com­ various activities. AGMA's Board of meeting held on March 3,1948. We hope panies, and violation of this ruling Governors passed 'a resolution on March 30th placing the Mascagni Opera Guild that circumstances will soon make it will result in disciplinary action. possible for them to be reinstated to You are hereby warned to check with and Josephine La Puma, directress, on the Unfair List when offered an engage­ the AGMA Unfair List. membership" ment. It was shown at the Board hearings 1. Adams-Williams Corp. that while supposedly a 'school', the Andronoff, Vsevolod 430 Sixth Avenue Mascagni Guild in reality represented a Barone, Etienne New York, N.Y. personal enterprise of Josephine La Beriozoff, Nicholas Wilson A. Williams Puma. She consequently was asked to Burton, James E. 2. Belmont Opera Guild (Belmont sign a Basic Agreement with AGMA, Campbell, Irving Community Society) and upon refusing, was placed on our Caselotti, Louise 183 St. & Arthur Ave. Unfair List. Chatfield, Palmer Bronx, New York AGMA members are warned not to Cianfrini, Lorenzo Robert Mahoney appear in any performance given by Clark, Katherine Leslie 3. The Mascagni Opera Guild the Mascagni Opera Guild, or of any Cronin, John A. 250 West 91st Street group with which Josephine La Puma Davis, Amy B. New York, N.Y. is associated. Violation of this ruling Geiskopf, Betty Jane Josephine La Puma will result in disciplinary action. Goodwin, Charles 4. The National Negro Opera Co., Graf, Walter Inc. William Spada Janes, Howell 3315 14th Street, N.E. LaPorte, Cyril Washington, D.C. Lassner, Oscar Mary Cardwell Dawson On Unfair List Layden, Carole 5. The New York Civic Opera Co. AGMA has written to William Spada Marlow, Linda 150 West 46th Street on two separate occasions, requesting Mauger, Edward J. New York, N.Y. him to negotiate a Basic Agreement. Mayes, Marion Lucille William Reuterman Not having received a reply, the matter Moody, Ann 6. William Spada was brought to the attention of the O'Brien, John Peter (Shaun) 226 West 72nd Street Board of Governors, and on May 25th, Parker, Dorothy New York, N.Y. Mr. Spada was placed upon the AGMA Pope, Helen 7. The Star Opera Co. Unfair List. Powell, Franklin B. 317 West 42nd Street AGMA members are warned that they Ranck, John J. New York, N.Y. may not appear in any production 0"£ Reid, Sydney Francis C. Torre William Spada's until he is removed Rhodes, Diane (Goldstein) 8. Verdi Grand Opera Co. from our Unfair List. Robbins, Jerry 389 Selye Terrace Ruben, Jose Rochester, New York DECEASED Schneiderman, Sigmund Vincent Faga Max Chikoff, former AGMA Shafer, John Sylvestre Zaccarria Chorister, passed away in New Simpson, Clark 9. Washington Grand Opera Ass'n. York City recently. Toumine, Sviatoslav 1710 19th Street, N.W. AGMA extends its sympathies to Ward, John Washington, D.C. his friends and relatives. Waring, J ames Kahn William Webster Westdahl, Susan

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