In Wednesday’s (7/20) Brisbane Times (Australia), Robin Usher writes, “Artistic concerns about the future of Orchestra Victoria are mounting, with a sector leader and the Musicians Union calling for the maintenance of a full-time ensemble. Orchestra Victoria’s musicians are seeking an assurance that full-time employment will be guaranteed in a new workplace agreement being negotiated. This uncertainty follows a study into the future of Melbourne’s opera and ballet orchestra commissioned by the Australia Council, which suggested it should come under the control of the Australian Ballet with a reduced number of permanent players and the removal of ‘restrictive work practices’. The national officer for the Symphony Orchestra Musicians Association, Howard Manley, is seeking a response from management before the players meet next Tuesday, saying secrecy about future plans is inconsistent with a vibrant artistic company. … The orchestra’s general manager, Rob Robertson, who says he will respond to the musicians’ demands for details about future employment within a week, says management is keen to restore its philanthropic fund-raising, with the support of the Australia Council, so that activity away from the State Theatre can increase.”
Posted July 20, 2011
