Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Musicians Reach Contract Agreement, with Wage Increases

In Friday’s (6/20) WWLP (Chicopee, Massachusetts), John Budenas writes, “The Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) and Local 171 of the American Federation of Musicians announced Thursday that they have reached a new two-year collective bargaining agreement. Set to take effect for the 2025–26 and 2026–27 concert seasons, the agreement ensures a minimum of eight symphonic concerts and one educational concert each season…. The contract includes wage increases for musicians and expands representation by adding a second musician to the orchestra’s board of directors … Said SSO President and CEO Paul Lambert, ‘This agreement joins musicians, staff, and our board in the collective enterprise of putting together the best symphonic concert seasons over the next two years.’ The orchestra will maintain an average of 64 contracted musicians, consistent with the current agreement…. ‘The musicians’ negotiating committee feels that this is a very positive step,’ said Beth Welty, President of Local 171. ‘We look forward to continuing to work with Paul Lambert, the staff, and the Board toward the goal of expanding the orchestra’s outreach and service to all of Western Massachusetts.’… The SSO has diversified its offerings … [and] has also launched community-focused initiatives.” Mei-Ann Chen is the orchestra’s artistic advisor.