Musicians from the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Philadelphia Orchestra Association have unanimously approved a new labor agreement, effective from September 2022 to September 2026. This deal, negotiated with the American Federation of Musicians Local 77, ensures a substantial 15.8% salary increase over three years.
The agreement outlines a structured salary increase: 6% in the first year, followed by 4.5% in each of the subsequent two years, replacing the previous four-year contract that expired on September 10.
The deal reflects a collective commitment to navigating a financially responsible path forward, considering the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Notably, the contract mandates an increase in annual musician hires, ensuring a minimum of 105 musicians and two librarians. Substitute and extra musicians will receive full compensation equal to that of full-time musicians by their third year of service, even if engagements are canceled with less than two weeks’ notice.
Furthermore, the agreement eliminates a lower overtime rate for movie performances and introduces a provision for two days of rest following most Sunday concerts. This landmark agreement is celebrated as a significant win for the Philadelphia Orchestra, emphasizing equitable treatment and securing a promising future for its members.