The Philadelphia Orchestra's musicians have officially approved a new labor agreement that spans from September 11, 2023, to September 13, 2026. This new contract, announced in partnership with the American Federation of Musicians Local 77, replaces a previous four-year contract that expired on September 10, 2023.
In August 2023, an overwhelming 95% of the orchestra's voting members had expressed their willingness to go on strike if a new collective bargaining agreement with the Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center Inc. (POKC) was not reached.
Despite some earlier disagreements, the new contract offers the musicians a substantial increase in their base salary, totaling 15.8% over three years, with 6% in the first year, 4.5% in the second, and another 4.5% in the third year.
Originally, the musicians had pushed for a 19.6% salary increase to align with the average earnings of musicians in orchestras of a similar caliber. This new contract marks a significant victory for the musicians, as it not only includes a substantial base salary increase but also incorporates crucial improvements to work rules and ensures equal pay for substitute and extra musicians who contribute to the orchestra's sound.
Furthermore, the agreement specifies that in the third year, orchestra substitutes and extra musicians will receive compensation equivalent to 100% of what full-time players earn, and freelancers will be paid in full if their services are canceled with less than two weeks' notice. Additionally, the contract commits POKC to expanding the orchestra to its full complement of 105 musicians, including two librarians.
This contract represents a significant investment in the Philadelphia Orchestra's musicians and underscores their commitment to preserving their position as one of the world's top symphony orchestras. It also highlights the musicians' dedication and determination to secure a fair deal and maintain the orchestra's high artistic standards.
The new contract is seen as a positive step forward for both the musicians and the orchestra's future, as it ensures their ability to continue delivering exceptional music to their supporters.
