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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 » Detroit Symphony Orchestra Agrees to One-Year Modification


Detroit Symphony Orchestra Agrees to One-Year Modification

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At the end of January, ahead of schedule and pre-COVID-19, musicians and management of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) had agreed on terms for a three-year contract, to go into effect September 7, 2020. The two sides have now agreed to a modification of the first year of that contract, with salary reduced to approximately 80%. Other language has been instituted to address the challenges of COVID-19—for example, musicians at higher risk for COVID-19 will not be required to perform in group settings, but will be required to perform alternative services.

Terms of the three-year contract include changes to health insurance premiums, with a set cost-sharing amount established for any premium increases; changes to audition rules, including setting a standard audition committee size of seven to nine members or 11 for the concertmaster position (auditions are postponed until they can be held safely); and changes to work rules, including a dress code that allows musicians to self-identify with regard to gender.

DSO musicians are members of Local 5 (Detroit, MI).







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