Community Update Email
Sign up to receive occasional email updates on the status of the Symphony

For Immediate Release
Contact: Jeff Trammel, 314-286-4136
jefft@slso.org

ST. LOUIS, Jan. 3, 2005 – After six months of negotiations between the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra management and orchestra musicians, no agreement has yet been reached. The collective bargaining agreement between the SLSO and musicians from Local 2-197 of the American Federation of Musicians expired today.

“We are extremely disappointed that a new contract agreement could not be finalized before the current contract expired, but we remain optimistic that both sides will continue to discuss the issues and a new agreement will be reached in the very near future, “ said Symphony president and executive director Randy Adams. “We have made an offer that we believe is fair to the musicians, financially responsible and sustainable for the future. A possible work stoppage would be unfortunate,” Adams continued, “but we must continue the orchestra’s return to health and stability by operating under a sound financial business plan that helped us avert bankruptcy a few years ago. We made a commitment to the many people in our community who stepped forward to save us. We cannot compromise the future of this organization for short term gains.”

“I want to compliment the musicians for being honorable and forthright during these negotiations. We do understand their desire to improve their financial position, but there is a limit on what the Symphony can offer and remain financially sound.”