St. Louis Symphony Orchestra (SLSO) completed its 2017 fiscal year with an operating surplus of $18,000—its first surplus this century. SLSO’s total annual budget was $30.3 million. The surplus was the culmination of a stellar 2016-2017 season, in which it increased ticket revenue 1%, with 23 sold-out concerts. SLSO embarked on a tour of Spain in February and performed at Carnegie Hall in March. Altogether, the orchestra gave 219 concerts, including 88 that were presented free of charge. A quarter-million people experienced a performance by the symphony over the course of the season. 

In January, a five-year musicians’ contract was reached seven months ahead of schedule. SLSO musicians are members of Local 2-197 (St. Louis, MO).