Atlanta GA, September 24, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has finalized a three-year contract with its musicians, which includes a 15 percent pay increase. This new agreement will raise the total number of musicians to 90, incorporating fresh talent alongside seasoned players. The ASO enters its 81st season with the addition of six new members, aiming to enhance its performance quality. The contract, embraced by both ASO leadership and the musicians’ union, reflects a continued commitment to artistic excellence and collaboration.
Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has secured a new three-year contract with its musicians, ensuring a 15 percent pay raise over the duration of the agreement. This deal is set to enhance the orchestra’s performance capabilities by increasing the number of musicians to a total of 90, with the addition of two more players.
As the ASO embarks on its 81st season, the organization has welcomed six new musicians into its ranks. These include Julia Su, returning as a segundo violinist after completing her degree at Rice University; William Dunlop, joining as a second oboe after performing with the New York Philharmonic and Metropolitan Opera; and Reese Farnell, appointed as third horn, previously of the Dallas Symphony. Additionally, Scott Sanders, former member of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, will serve as the fourth horn. The new lineup also features Kelly Kanai, a first violinist from Osaka, Japan, recognized for her performances with the Seattle Symphony, and Jin Wook Suk, a first violinist from South Korea, who studied at the Royal Academy of Music and Rice University.
Bruce Kenney, President of Local 148-462, expressed that this new agreement continues a tradition of collaboration with the ASO that dates back to 1946. The excitement surrounding these developments is echoed by ASO Executive Director Jenifer Barlament, who looks forward to the contributions of the new musicians.
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs over 150 concerts annually, collaborating closely with the ASO Chorus and contributing significantly to their impressive tally of 27 GRAMMY Award-winning recordings. This new contract and the introduction of new talent are expected to further enhance the quality and depth of ASO’s performances in the years to come.
Contract Terms and Financial Details
The new contract ensures that musicians will receive a total of a 15 percent raise over the three-year period. This financial boost aims to support the musicians in enhancing their skills and artistic expression while ensuring the orchestra remains competitive in the evolving musical landscape.
New Musicians Profile
| Name | Position | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Julia Su | Segundo Violinist | Returned after degree at Rice University |
| William Dunlop | Second Oboe | Performed with New York Philharmonic and Metropolitan Opera |
| Reese Farnell | Third Horn | Previously with the Dallas Symphony |
| Scott Sanders | Fourth Horn | Formerly with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra |
| Kelly Kanai | First Violinist | From Osaka, Japan; known for performances with Seattle Symphony |
| Jin Wook Suk | First Violinist | Studied at Royal Academy of Music and Rice University |
Historical Context
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has a long-standing history since its inception, with a mission to enrich the cultural life of Atlanta and beyond. The collaboration between ASO management and its musicians has fostered a strong community connection, appealing to a diverse audience while achieving critical acclaim.
Future Prospects
The ASO’s determination to invest in its musicians and expand its ranks signals a commitment to artistic excellence. The combination of established musicians and fresh talent is expected to create a vibrant environment filled with innovative performances, further accentuating ASO’s legacy in classical music.
FAQ
What recent agreement did the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra secure?
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has secured a new three-year contract with its musicians.
What does the new contract guarantee for the musicians?
The agreement guarantees a 15 percent raise for musicians over the contract period.
How many new musicians is ASO welcoming this season?
The orchestra is introducing six new musicians.
What is the total number of musicians in the ASO after the new additions?
The total headcount will increase to 90.
How often does ASO perform annually?
The orchestra performs over 150 concerts annually.
How many GRAMMY Awards has the ASO won?
ASO has contributed to 27 GRAMMY Award-winning recordings.
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Additional Resources
- Slippedisc: Atlanta Symphony Agrees to 15% Pay Rise
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
- Rough Draft Atlanta: ASO Welcomes Six New Musicians
- Google Search: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra 2025
- The Violin Channel: ASO Hires New Musicians
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orchestra
- Encore Magazine: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra October 2025
- Google News: Atlanta Symphony News
- Creative Loafing: Andrew Bird with ASO
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