At the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s concert on Thursday, writes John von Rhein in Friday’s (9/25) Chicago Tribune, “CSO bassist Stephen Lester, chair of the CSO musicians members committee that has been negotiating a new labor contract with the CSO Association since July, took the stage before the program to deliver an impromptu speech in which he assured the audience of the players’ dedication to the institution, whatever happens in the days ahead. Musicians have been working without a contract since the previous pact expired nearly two weeks ago, he said, praising ‘the many colleagues who worked so hard … to build this orchestra (and) a legacy we all must treasure.… We have been in intense negotiations for many months, and we are still doing everything we possibly can to reach a fair agreement.’ … Lester was not immediately available for further comment, and CSO Association President Jeff Alexander declined to comment on Lester’s remarks.” The concert, led by CSO Music Director Riccardo Muti, “threw the spotlight on the individual strengths of these great musicians.” Works included Ginastera’s Harp Concerto with soloist Xavier de Maistre, Chabrier’s España, Charpentier’s Impressions of Italy, and Ravel’s Bolero.
Posted September 28, 2015
