In Michigan, the Grand Rapids Symphony and its musicians have agreed to a two-year labor contract covering the period through August 31, 2011. As part of the agreement, approved by musicians on September 27, the orchestra’s musicians, executive and artistic leadership, and administrative staff have instituted compensation reductions ranging from 5 to 20 percent. The agreement calls for a reduction in season length from 42 to 40 weeks, with weekly musician wages maintained at current levels. Employer contributions to the 401(k) plan will be suspended, along with guaranteed payments from recording activities. The contract provides for revisiting wages, benefits, and season length during the second year of the agreement. The concert schedule for the 2009-10 season will remain unchanged.
Posted October 6, 2009
