Louisville, KY (News Release) -- The Louisville Orchestra and its musicians announced today a new three-year contract between the Association and members of Local 11-637 of the American Federation of Musicians. The new contract takes effect June 1, 2013 and runs through May 31, 2016.
The contract succeeds the one year settlement agreement of April 2012.
“The Louisville Orchestra Musicians’ Committee and management team came together for the greater good of the organization and community,” said Chuck Maisch, Board President of the Louisville Orchestra. “The agreement allows for a modest pay increase for our musicians while maintaining organizational cost structure stability. I’d like to thank the Louisville Orchestra Musicians’ Committee and its chair, Kimberly Tichenor, for their continued commitment and dedication to the Louisville Orchestra. I’d also like to thank Interim CEO David Hyslop and his administrative team for their valuable work to reach this successful outcome.”
Board President-Elect James Welch stated, “This is a responsible settlement that enables the board to go forward in the rebuilding process of the Louisville Orchestra. The musicians have made a clear commitment to the organization and the community. We embrace them as we commit to a long-term sustainable future together.”
“While Louisville Orchestra musicians will take a wage freeze for another two years that is economically painful, we understand the value of a reinvigorated board of directors, consultant Peter Pastreich and the management resources he has helped put in place that will keep us moving forward as the Orchestra selects a new music director,” said Kimberly Tichenor, violinist with the Louisville Orchestra and chairman of the Musicians’ Orchestra Committee.
According to the agreement, musician wages will remain level during the first two years and will increase by 3 % in the third year. The length of season will remain at 30 weeks and the number of salaried musicians will be 55 or 56.
“This contract settlement enables the Louisville Orchestra to build for the future,” said David J. Hyslop, interim CEO. Peter Pastreich, a long-time industry expert and consultant for both parties was praised for helping to facilitate the agreement.
