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Orchestra News

Kansas City Symphony Takes Pay Cuts

August 31, 2020 IM

Musicians of the Kansas City Symphony recently ratified a one-year agreement modifying the 2020-21 season. Musicians will take a 19% pay cut for the 2020-21 season—part of the organization’s goal to trim expenses overall by 25%. A hiring freeze will leave vacant positions unfilled.

When the orchestra again begins holding ticketed performances at its concert hall, salaries are planned to rise to 8% below the normal rate. For indoor programs, the orchestra is considering scheduling additional performances in order to keep audience sizes smaller and allow for social distancing; some concerts will also be available to watch virtually. In the meantime, the symphony plans to hold outdoor chamber music performances in parks and neighborhoods. The Kansas City Symphony succeeded in ending the 2020-21 season with only a small deficit, due to generous ticket donations and other contributions.

The orchestra’s musicians are members of Local 34-627 (Kansas City, MO).