The musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and management of the Chautauqua Institution have agreed to extend the terms of the current musicians’ contract agreement through September 2021, while also making adjustments that allow for more flexibility in crafting the 2021 season.

Five weeks of performances will take place during Chautauqua’s renowned summer season. Performances will feature smaller ensembles with social distancing; all musicians, except for wind and brass players, will be masked; and appearances by guest soloists will be limited.

CSO trumpet player Leslie Linn of Local 134 (Jamestown, NY) served as chair of the musicians’ negotiations committee. “As we prepare for the upcoming season at Chautauqua, we are grateful to have an opportunity to be back together, in person, to perform for the Chautauqua community, filling the void that has existed for all of us since in-person performing ceased due to the pandemic,” says Linn. “The musicians of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra are excited to have this agreement in place. We thank the institution for working with us over many months to reach this agreement and are eager to return to Chautauqua and the audience we love.”