Atlanta, GA, September 27, 2025
News Summary
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has signed a three-year contract with its musicians, featuring a 15% pay increase, maintained health benefits, and two new player positions. The agreement reflects ASO’s commitment to financial stability and acknowledges the contributions of its musicians. Additionally, a comprehensive overhaul of audition and tenure procedures has been initiated to align with industry standards. The orchestra’s concert season will commence with performances led by Music Director Nathalie Stutzmann, featuring works by Strauss and Copland.
Atlanta
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has signed a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with its players, represented by the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 148-462. The contract includes a 15% pay increase for ASO musicians over the duration of the agreement, reflecting the orchestra’s dedication to preserving financial stability while valuing its musicians.
In addition to the significant pay increase, the new contract will maintain health benefits for musicians at the same level as the previous contract, ensuring a consistent standard of care. Furthermore, the contract includes the addition of two new player positions, raising the total number of employed players to 90 by the end of the third year.
ASO has also executed a “comprehensive overhaul” of its audition and tenure review procedures. Although specific details of this overhaul have been kept confidential, it has been described as being “consistent with industry standards.” This move aligns with ASO’s commitment to maintaining a high standard of performance and organizational quality.
Jennifer Barlament, Executive Director of ASO, highlighted that the agreement preserves the financial stability of the orchestra while concurrently acknowledging the contributions of its musicians. In conjunction, Jessica Oudin, President of the ASO Players’ Association, expressed gratitude for the new contract, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to audiences and the arts.
The ASO will kick off its season with concerts conducted by Music Director Nathalie Stutzmann from October 3-5, featuring works such as Strauss’ Ein Heldenleben and Copland’s Fanfare for the Common Man. Following these opening performances, the orchestra will continue its concert series with pieces by Bach, Brahms’ 4th Symphony, and Grieg’s Piano Concerto on October 9 and 10. Tickets for these upcoming concerts are selling quickly.
Background Context
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence and community engagement. With the new contract in place, ASO maintains its streak of eleven consecutive years of balanced annual budgets, demonstrating fiscal responsibility amidst the dynamic landscape of the performing arts.
The AFM Local 148-462 represents musicians across various local orchestras and ensures they are fairly compensated and have access to necessary benefits. The recent agreement reflects the ongoing negotiations between orchestras and musicians, which are critical to securing the future of symphonic music in Atlanta and beyond.
FAQ
What is the duration of the new contract signed by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra?
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) has signed a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with its players.
How much of a pay increase will ASO musicians receive?
The contract stipulates a 15% pay increase for ASO musicians over its duration.
Will musicians’ health benefits change under the new contract?
There have been no changes to the health benefits for musicians; they remain at the same level as the previous contract.
How many musicians will be employed by ASO by the end of the contract?
The contract includes the addition of two new player positions, bringing the total number of employed players to ninety by the third year.
When will the ASO’s concert season begin?
The ASO will kick off its season with concerts conducted by Music Director Nathalie Stutzmann from October 3-5.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | Three years |
| Pay Increase | 15% pay increase for musicians |
| Health Benefits | No changes; same level as previous contract |
| New Positions | Two additional players, reaching 90 by year three |
| Audition and Review Overhaul | Modernized procedures; specifics confidential |
| Season Kickoff | Starts October 3-5 |
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Additional Resources
- The Violin Channel
- Google Search: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
- Creative Loafing
- Wikipedia: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
- Creative Loafing Event
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