The Nashville Symphony and the Nashville Musicians Association, AFM Local 257, announced that they have ratified a new contract. The agreement was reached three months ahead of schedule and will go into effect Aug. 1, 2016, completing the restoration of musicians’ salaries to 2013 levels by early 2018. The new agreement provides for a 4.5 percent increase to the musicians’ base salaries for the 2016-17 season and provides two additional increases totaling 5.3 percent for the 2017-18 season. In addition, the contract provides for restoring one second-violin position to the ensemble in the second year of the agreement. Nashville Symphony President and CEO Alan Valentine said, “Together we have achieved things that many would never have thought possible: the building of a world-class concert hall, eight Grammy Awards, two critically acclaimed Carnegie Hall performances, and much more. Working with the musicians of our orchestra is one of the most gratifying parts of my job.” Laura Ross, violinist and union steward, stated, “The cordial atmosphere during negotiations was welcome, and this agreement is validation that our hard work and continued excellence are appreciated. We are proud to represent Music City, and it is gratifying to know that our community supports our efforts.”
Posted April 29, 2016
