After Cleveland Jazz Orchestra musicians unanimously signed cards stating they are joining together in union, the orchestra’s board of trustees unanimously voted to voluntarily recognize the Cleveland Federation of Musicians (AFM Local 4) as the musicians’ exclusive bargaining agent.

Musicians began organizing earlier this year and continued meeting via video conferencing since the onset of Ohio’s stay-at-home order. All parties are optimistic that an initial collective bargaining agreement will be reached before the scheduled start of the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra fall season.

“I am heartened that we were able to expedite this process in the midst of our current state of affairs,” said AFM Local 4 President Leonard DiCosimo “The commitment of our musicians and the good faith demonstrated by Cleveland Jazz Orchestra is an excellent beginning for all of us.”