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Tag Archives: Albany Symphony

Albany Symphony Reaches Agreement on New Contract

September 1, 2019 IM

After five months of negotiations, musicians and management of the Albany Symphony reached an agreement on a new contract near the end of July.

The four-year contract increases the number of guaranteed services per season, and increases pay rates for services, mileage, and per diems. In addition, pay rates could be further increased pending the organization’s achievement of sales, fundraising, and endowment goals.

The new contract also includes changes in rehearsal and concert conditions that will support artistic quality, and for the first time, includes language addressing education and community-engagement activities. A side letter affirms Albany Symphony’s commitment to the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

“The negotiating committee and the Albany Symphony engaged in days of meaningful discussions about the future of the orchestra and how to solve problems both sides were facing,” says Joey Demko of Local 14 (Albany, NY), a French hornist in the orchestra and co-chair of the musicians negotiating committee. “Together, we were able to build a collaborative agreement that ensures that the Capital District continues to have a world-class orchestra.”

International Musician, Orchestra News

Albany Symphony Honors Donor

November 30, 2017 IM

On November 18, Albany Symphony held a special ceremony to dedicate its top artistic post to long-time patron Dr. Heinrich Medicus. When Medicus passed away in February, leaving a $7 million bequest, plus a portion of his estate’s residuary, it represented the largest financial gift in the symphony’s history.

Medicus was a close friend to Albany Symphony Music Director David Alan Miller. “We will miss him terribly, but his spirit will be with us every time we make music together,” says Miller. Albany Symphony musicians are members of Local 14 (Albany, NY).