Blue Canvas Orchestra Returns to Big Top with First CBA

June 1, 2025

IM  -  

Following what turned out to be a tough battle, the musicians of the Blue Canvas Orchestra (BCO), the house band for Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua, celebrated their first collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in May. The summer venue in Bayfield, Wisconsin, has been in operation since 1986 with the BCO performing original shows that are educational and bring awareness to history and culture.

Talented local and regional performers are the backbone of the BCO, and with major artists from around the country bringing their shows to the venue each summer, Big Top has become a unique gem that draws thousands of tourists to the beautiful small town.

In June 2024, when BCO musicians, represented by Local 18 (Duluth, MN), began bargaining with new management, Ashwabay Alliance, among their priorities were fair wages, compensation for travel, job security, and rules regarding rehearsal times. (This was the subject of the July 2024 IM cover story: internationalmusician.org/under-the-big-top.)

“The musicians who perform in BCO are dedicated to preserving the legacy and culture that Big Top represents,” says Vincent Osborn, president of Local 18. “The frustratingly long battle to achieve an agreement with Ashwabay Alliance garnered significant attention from the community and tourists when it appeared that major changes were being planned that did not include the BCO. This agreement ensures that Big Top will continue to hire local talent and preserve live music for years to come.” 

“We’re very grateful for the assistance of the Federation through all these months of negotiating,” adds Osborn. The BCO negotiating committee consisted of bassist Osborn, keyboardist and vocalist Danielle Diamond, and vocalist Tom Mitchell, who also plays drums and harmonica with BCO.

“As musicians, we stand proud and hopeful in working alongside the board for the future of the organization,” says Diamond. “We are committed to showing our gratitude through our ever-evolving artistry and steadfast dedication to our supportive communities. The horizon looks bright from our beloved stage at Big Top—the venue the Blue Canvas Orchestra built.” 

The new CBA provides 10% annual raises over the next three seasons, resulting in a 33% gain by 2027. Musicians would now be provided mileage compensation, meal stipends, and hotel reimbursement for those who travel the farthest.

There will be a guaranteed minimum number of services per season, a guaranteed number of services in the “hallowed” Big Top, and a guaranteed minimum number of musicians for every performance. Musicians recognized by the National Labor Relations Board would receive tenure immediately. A new codified tenure process—with a committee of tenured musicians—will be established for the next generation of colleagues.

The CBA establishes several protections, including breaks and caps on rehearsal times, safety guarantees, protections against discrimination, and a grievance procedure. The employer also agreed not to substitute musicians with recordings or electronic devices without permission from the musicians.

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