Philly Orchestra and Musicians Reach 3-Year Deal, 15.8% Salary Boost
Philadelphia Orchestra Musicians Ratify New Contract with Salary Increases
In an exciting development, the musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Philadelphia Orchestra Association have ratified a collective bargaining agreement that will result in a significant boost to their minimum salaries. Over the course of three years, salaries will increase by an impressive 15.8 percent.
The agreement, which was announced on Saturday night, covers the period from September 11, 2023, to September 13, 2026. The increases outlined in the agreement include 6 percent in the first year, followed by 4.5 percent in both the second and third years. This new agreement replaces a previous four-year contract that expired on September 10.
“Following the unprecedented disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, our joint challenge was to find a new and financially responsible path forward,” said Ralph W. Muller and Michael D. Zisman, co-chairs of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center Inc., in a statement.
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The union has stated that the new contract includes provisions requiring management to increase the number of musicians hired each year and to maintain a minimum of 105 musicians and two librarians. Additionally, substitute and extra musicians will earn the same as full-time musicians by the third year of service and will be compensated if their engagements are canceled with less than two weeks’ notice.
Furthermore, the agreement eliminates a lower rate of overtime for playing movies and mandates two days of rest after most Sunday concerts.
“This contract is a victory for the present and future of the Philadelphia Orchestra,” said David Fay, a double bassist and chair of the musicians’ members committee. “We are grateful for the support of our musical director, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, whose unwavering respect for us as musicians was evident in his advocacy for a fair contract.”
In the 2022–2023 season, the base salary was $152,256, including wages from the electronic media agreement. Additionally, each musician received a supplemental payment of either $750 or $1,500 each year of the contract, according to the union.
Yannick Nézet-Séguin, who has been the music director since 2012–2013, showed his support for the union by wearing a blue T-shirt during an open rehearsal at Saratoga on August 11.
The Philadelphia Orchestra previously filed for bankruptcy in 2011 but successfully emerged a year later. In 2016, musicians went on strike, leading to the cancellation of the season’s opening night. However, an agreement was reached just two days later.
How does the new collective bargaining agreement benefit the musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra?
The new agreement also includes improvements in work rules, scheduling, and benefits. It establishes new provisions for the scheduling of rehearsals and performances, as well as guidelines for remote and hybrid performances. It also enhances the musicians’ retirement plans and provides increased access to healthcare benefits. Both the musicians and the Philadelphia Orchestra Association expressed their satisfaction with the new agreement. The increased salaries will help attract and retain top talent, ensuring that the Philadelphia Orchestra continues to deliver world-class performances. The Philadelphia Orchestra is one of the most acclaimed musical institutions in the United States, known for its exceptional musicianship and groundbreaking performances. However, like many orchestras around the world, it faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Concert cancellations, reduced ticket sales, and financial constraints put strain on the organization and its musicians. Despite these challenges, the musicians and the Philadelphia Orchestra Association remained committed to finding a mutually beneficial solution. Negotiations began well in advance of the contract expiration date, allowing both parties sufficient time to develop a new agreement that would address their respective needs and concerns. The ratified contract demonstrates a shared dedication to the success and longevity of the Philadelphia Orchestra. By increasing salaries and improving work conditions, the agreement rewards the musicians for their artistry and dedication while also ensuring the sustainability of the institution. The new contract comes at a crucial time for the orchestra as it looks towards the future. With live performances gradually returning and audiences eager to experience the magic of the Philadelphia Orchestra once again, this agreement will serve as a strong foundation for the orchestra’s continued success. As the Philadelphia Orchestra continues to inspire audiences with its exceptional music-making, its musicians can now look forward to a more secure and prosperous future. By ratifying this new contract, they have reaffirmed their commitment to excellence and affirmed the value of their contributions to the cultural landscape of Philadelphia. With the increased salaries and improved working conditions, the Philadelphia Orchestra musicians can focus on their craft and continue to enchant audiences with their unparalleled artistry. This new chapter in the orchestra’s history promises exciting performances and musical accomplishments that will further cement their reputation as one of the world’s leading orchestras. The new collective bargaining agreement is a testament to the resilience and determination of both the musicians and the Philadelphia Orchestra Association. It is a celebration of their shared passion for music and their joint commitment to preserving and enhancing the artistic legacy of the Philadelphia Orchestra. As the orchestra embarks on this new era, music lovers around the world eagerly anticipate the extraordinary performances that will emerge from this partnership. The Philadelphia Orchestra musicians, armed with their new contract, are poised to create transformative and unforgettable musical experiences that will captivate audiences for years to come.
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