The negotiations went on over the summer and the fact that they concluded amicably is news — when you read about the Chicago Symphony strike, the Minnesota Orchestra’s “final offer” and the cliffhanging over the Atlanta Symphony negotiations possibly leading to a delayed season.
There’s a modest pay increase and the 46-week concert season is maintained. One of the interesting sidelights on the whole process is in the press release’s last paragraph:
In May 2012, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra adopted a new five-year strategic plan that was developed to chart a new course to financial stability following several years of economic setbacks. The planning process was facilitated by the DeVos Institute of Arts Management led by preeminent arts expert Michael Kaiser, and involved members of the board, management staff, and musicians. The Strategic Plan aims to build audiences, reinvigorate the FWSO’s visibility and presence on the local and national stage, and multiply institutional commitments and individual support.
The full release:
FWSO MUSICIANS RATIFY NEW THREE-YEAR CONTRACT
FORT WORTH – The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Association and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 72-147, announced an agreement on a new three-year contract today. The new contract is effective immediately and runs through July 31, 2015. The key components include:
- Salary increases of 3.5% over the life of the contract in annual increments of 0%, 1.5% and 2%.
- Modest increases in tour per diem rates.
- A modest seniority pay package for contract musicians beginning after five years of employment. (Previously, the FWSO was the only major orchestra not offering seniority pay).
- Changes in work rules to provide more flexibility in paid and unpaid leave for musicians in summer months.
- Preservation of a 46-week concert season.
“The Association and the Musicians’ Negotiating Committee worked tirelessly over the summer months to achieve an agreement that would solidify the Orchestra’s investment in artistic excellence while forging a path towards financial stability,” said Amy Adkins, FWSOA President. “The FWSO enjoys some of most exceptional musicians in the country who, in addition to their devotion to performance excellence, are deeply committed to working hand-in-hand with board and staff to engage and enrich our community.”
Sterling Procter, Chair of the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Musicians’ Negotiating Committee, said, “With this contract and with the strong support of the Board, the musicians are looking forward to bold artistic and institutional achievements. We will work together with the Association toward our common goal – building on the FWSO’s reputation as a local jewel of national acclaim. This three-year agreement will provide the organization the necessary tools for fulfillment of the strategic plan and long-term success.”
In May 2012, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra adopted a new five-year strategic plan that was developed to chart a new course to financial stability following several years of economic setbacks. The planning process was facilitated by the DeVos Institute of Arts Management led by preeminent arts expert Michael Kaiser, and involved members of the board, management staff, and musicians. The Strategic Plan aims to build audiences, reinvigorate the FWSO’s visibility and presence on the local and national stage, and multiply institutional commitments and individual support.
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Lindsay Landgraf | Press and Publications Manager
Office: 817-665-6500, ext. 127
Cell: 817-319-1786
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