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THE PHOENIX SYMPHONY AND MUSICIANS AGREE TO NEW CONTRACT
Agreement Supports Presentation of Extraordinary Performances, Education Programs, and Community Engagement Initiatives
PHOENIX (June 27, 2023) – The Phoenix Symphony and its musicians, members of Professional Musicians of Arizona, American Federation of Musicians, Local 586, announced agreement on a new contract.
The Symphony’s Board of Directors approved the new contract at its June 26 meeting and musicians voted in support of the contract on June 24. The one-year agreement extends through November 2, 2024 and reflects a shared commitment to serving Arizona as the state’s largest performing arts organization. The agreement reflects a performance season of 35 weeks and includes a 2.5% increase in weekly compensation along with establishment of an insurance task force comprised of musicians, board members, and management leadership that will have primary, but not sole, focus on health insurance.
“The Phoenix Symphony is at a turning point in its history, and the progress we make in the next year will be of vital importance,” said President and CEO Peter Kjome. “I appreciate the productive and collaborative conversations with our musicians as we work together with our Board to chart the course toward a bright future for our great orchestra.”
“Our colleagues are committed to the success of The Phoenix Symphony, and we are encouraged by the progress represented by this agreement,” said Mark Deatherage, Phoenix Symphony Associate Principal Violist and lead negotiator for Local 586. “This is an important step as we seek to advance our symphony orchestra, its programs, and its people.”
Discussions about the contract were supported by alignment on strategic objectives related to artistic excellence, community engagement, and education, supported by expansion of the orchestra’s family of audience members and donors.
“The Board of The Phoenix Symphony is delighted to reach agreement with our exceptional musicians,” said Board Chair Adam Goodman. “This new contract will help us continue working together to reach new audiences and serve our diverse community while supporting a healthy business environment.”
Lon Babby, Immediate Past Board Co-Chair and Contract Review Committee Chair, spoke about the significance of the agreement. “The Phoenix Symphony is beginning an important new chapter,” said Babby. “This agreement will help our organization focus on the future and make essential progress with the support of our community.”
The Phoenix Symphony announced its 77th season in April. Season subscriptions for 2023/24 are available at phoenixsymphony.org.
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About The Phoenix Symphony
The Phoenix Symphony is Arizona’s largest performing arts organization and one of the state’s most important cultural assets. In addition to performing traditional and modern repertoire in the fall and spring in Symphony Hall and around the Valley, its world-class musicians are actively engaged in the community thanks to generous foundation, corporation, and individual support. The Symphony is strengthened by collaborating with renowned guest conductors and artists. The core mission of The Phoenix Symphony is to provide the joy of live music as a catalyst for discovery, knowledge, compassion, and connection. Annually, orchestra members empower more than 120,000 students through education and partnerships and create opportunities for deeper connection for tens of thousands of adults experiencing homelessness, in Alzheimer’s care facilities, in hospitals and in hospice.
To learn more, please visit phoenixsymphony.org
