LENOX, Mass. – Musicians with the Boston Symphony Orchestra have authorized what would be the first strike in the institution’s 145-year history, the players’ union announced Saturday.
The Boston Musicians’ Association released its statement as the union’s three-year contract was set to expire at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
Tensions between the orchestra’s musicians and management have been running high since March, when the BSO decided to force out music director Andris Nelsons next summer after 13 seasons.
“In spite of the turmoil of the last six months caused by BSO’s leadership decision to terminate the orchestra’s musical director, Andris Nelsons, they have failed to agree to a collective bargaining agreement that would begin to restore the trust that they have destroyed and offer a fair contract to the musicians who are at the heart and soul of the BSO,” the union said in a statement.
According to the union, management has not accepted the musicians’ request to bring in a mediator.
“We respect the musicians’ right to take this step as part of the negotiating process,” BSO CEO Chad Smith said in a statement. “Our focus remains on the negotiations and the ongoing constructive conversations. We are committed to reaching an agreement with competitive pay and benefits that enhances collaboration with the players.”
The Boston Symphony Orchestra is currently scheduled to begin its season on Sept. 17.
