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Home » Orchestra News » Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Alleges Contract Violations


Knoxville Symphony Orchestra Alleges Contract Violations

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Local 546 (Knoxville, TN), has filed a labor grievance against the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra (KSO), which represents musicians of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. The two sides now appear headed to arbitration.

With less than a week’s notice, KSO’s musicians were furloughed for five months, with the opening of the concert season delayed until February. Days later, musicians presented management with a contract proposal, which was declined. Most of the orchestra’s administrative staff have also been furloughed.

“We’ve been working with the KSO for several months to offer extra flexibility and innovative ideas for putting on safe performances that bring music into our community and schools at a time when everyone needs it most,” says Steve Benne, chair of the musicians’ orchestra committee and member of Local 546. “In return, and without any advance warning, the KSO furloughed us a week before our season was about to begin. This decision by the KSO to strip away our livelihood and healthcare in the middle of a pandemic is cruel and unconscionable.”







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