Today the musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra began a strike, after negotiations for a new contract failed. According to a press release from the Chicago Federation of Musicians, the musicians walked out of negotiations with the Board of Trustees and announced that they would not return to work until a new contract agreement is reached.
“We have been clear from the beginning that we will not accept a contract that diminishes the well-being of members or imperils the future of the orchestra,” Steve Lester, the Chair of the Musicians of the CSO negotiating committee, said in a statement.
A piquet line will be set at the entrance of the orchestra hall every day from 8 am. The negotiators did not reach an agreement over salary increase and pension system.
Last week, Music Director Riccardo Muti said he was solidarizing with his musicians.
