“The Portland Symphony Orchestra and the union representing its musicians have reached a four-year contract that includes a pay increase of 8 percent over the contract’s first two years,” states an unsigned article in Monday’s (10/31) Portland Press Herald (Maine). “The contract was accepted unanimously” by the musicians. “The contract includes a 4 percent increase in pay, effective immediately, with the orchestra committing to another 4 percent in the contract’s second year. The contract will be revisited in each of the final two years.… Musicians who appear on behalf of the PSO in community performances, lectures and other community roles also will receive pay increases.… In Portland, most musicians work part time for the PSO, juggling several jobs.…‘As they must sometimes choose between playing with one ensemble or another due to schedule conflicts, it is important that the PSO’s wages are as competitive as possible,’ PSO executive director Carolyn Nishon said.… Russell Wilson, a viola player and chairman of the musician’s committee, praised the orchestra for its ‘continued commitment to supporting its musicians.… With this contract, the Portland Symphony Orchestra is reaffirming its commitment to provide high-quality performance and music education to the Portland community.’ ”
Posted November 1, 2016
In photo: Members of the Portland Symphony Orchestra’s cello and double-bass sections
