Boston Symphony Musicians Ratify New Contract, Averting First-Ever Strike
The Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) and its musicians have reached a three-year labor agreement that will last until August 2029, thus preventing a potential strike. The contract was ratified by the musicians with an impressive 94% approval. Negotiations were tense, highlighted by a vote on August 22 that authorized a strike, which was avoided after a two-day extension was granted. The new agreement allows musicians to play a significant role in artistic decisions, including the selection of collaborators and repertoire. Additionally, it outlines the process for appointing the next music director. However, BSO Patron Action expressed concerns about the absence of reinstatement for music director Andris Nelsons and the lack of transparency from CEO Chad Smith. This ratification comes just before the BSO's 2026/27 season begins on September 17.
Key facts
- BSO and musicians finalized a three-year labor agreement effective through August 2029.
- Musicians ratified the contract by a 94% vote.
- The agreement averted the first strike in the orchestra's 145-year history.
- Musicians' union voted to authorize a possible walkout on August 22.
- A two-day deadline extension was announced on Sunday afternoon.
- Final alignment was announced on Tuesday, August 25.
- The contract gives musicians unprecedented artistic collaboration, including selecting collaborators and shaping repertoire.
- The BSO's 2026/27 season opens in Boston on September 17 with Nelsons conducting and Yo-Yo Ma as soloist.
Entities
Artists
- Andris Nelsons
- Yo-Yo Ma
- David Rufino
- Todd Seeber
- George Whiting
- Quinn MacKenzie
- Chad Smith
- Barbara Hostetter
Institutions
- Boston Symphony Orchestra
- Boston Musicians' Association
- BSO Patron Action
- Red Flower Campaign
- Tanglewood
Locations
- Boston
- United States
- Lenox
- Berkshires