Jonathan Lee, Vice President

How long have you been on the board?

I joined the CMA Board in May of 2020, in the midst of the pandemic.

How long have you been a union member?

I joined the AFM when I was 20 years old, after I won my position in the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra.

What locals have you belonged to? 

I am a proud member of Locals 1 and 101-473.

What instrument (s) do you play?

I am a cellist!

Where do you live?

I’m currently living in East Walnut Hills and have previously lived in Walnut Hills and Clifton.

Are any of your family members musicians?

Both of my parents played professionally in the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra while my mother continues as a violinist in the New Mexico Philharmonic. They have both been members of AFM Local 618.

How have you seen the union change since you joined?

While I haven’t been in the union for quite a long time, I have seen the union go to great lengths to adapt to the struggles brought on by the pandemic.

What are the Union’s biggest challenges today and in the future?

I think one of the biggest challenges for the union is how we serve musicians who are creating careers outside of the traditional orchestral and freelance models.

What is your vision for the Union in the future?

I would love to see the union clarify its value proposition as it relates to the younger generations of musicians especially given the current state of the pension.