In July 1983, AGMAzine announced the election of mezzo-soprano Nedda Casei as AGMA’s first woman president. Already a member for 23 years and a longtime Board participant, Casei stepped into the role as a seasoned union steward with a clear sense of purpose. Her election was a historic moment for the Union and reflected both her leadership within the field and a broader shift in the Union’s evolving identity.
Casei’s presidency, which spanned a full decade from 1983 to 1993, was defined by steady, forward-looking work on behalf of performing artists. She championed stronger copyright protections for performers at a time when recording and broadcast technologies were rapidly changing the industry. In Washington, she advocated for health care reform, recognizing early on the urgency of securing more stable support systems for artists whose careers often fall outside traditional employment structures.
Her leadership also extended to building resources and opportunities. Casei helped cultivate relationships with foundations and private donors, laying the groundwork that would strengthen the AGMA Relief Fund and lead to the “Million Dollar Campaign” during the Union’s 50th anniversary. She supported initiatives such as singing competitions and helped foster connections with organizations like Fordham University, which contributed to Career Transition For Dancers.
Reflecting years later during AGMA’s 75th anniversary, Casei said, “Looking back on my ten years as president, I am proud that we were able to build more communication across the country and a more cohesive union to combat the challenges that artists continue to face today. It is the reason for AGMA. It’s the heartbeat.”
Casei passed away on January 20, 2020, at the age of 87. Her legacy remains a defining chapter in AGMA’s history.