The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra has reached a two-year contract agreement with its musicians, represented by Local 8 of the American Federation of Musicians. It brings not onléy financial benefiots to the musicians, but also creates possibilities for change in the MSO’s audition process for hiring new orchestra players.
According to the agreement In the 2023-’24 season musicians will receive a 4.5% pay increase, with a reduction of playing weeks from 41 to 40. In the following season, musicians will receive a 3% pay raise, with playing weeks restored to 41. Over the course of the contract, the base salary for a musician will increase to $74,310.
The new contract also « includes provisions to promote inclusivity and diversity in our audition process, » the MSO said in a statement.
