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Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.

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Home » Orchestra News » Memphis Symphony Orchestra Musicians Accept Pay Cut


Memphis Symphony Orchestra Musicians Accept Pay Cut

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In October, musicians of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO) accepted a 38% pay cut in order to allow the organization to regain its footing. The concession is for the current year only and will then be renegotiated.

In addition to the wage cut, the orchestra’s season length will be reduced from 39 weeks to 24 nonconsecutive weeks. Vacant positions in the orchestra will not be filled this year.

MSO was in danger of closure earlier this year, and the musicians approved a memorandum of understanding stating that the orchestra would reduce its budget from $4.8 million to $3.2 million. Since then, MSO has raised $2.2 million toward its new “sustainability fund.”







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