Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Musicians Union agree to four-year contract
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra and its members, represented by the Chicago Federation of Musicians, have agreed upon a new contract. The four-year agreement provides wage increases totaling 11 percent over the course of the contract, while enabling sustainable budgets and supporting the long-term growth and stability of the orchestra.
“This agreement represents an investment by the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and our musicians in the orchestra’s long-term growth and allows the ESO to continue making exceptional live orchestra experiences accessible for residents in the northwest suburbs through our diverse programming, educational opportunities, and community performances,” said Marc Thayer, CEO of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra.
The award-winning ESO is deeply rooted in the Elgin community. Last year, in addition to its Classics series of concert hall performances, the ESO provided more than 150 opportunities – from free community concerts and Listener’s Club discussions; to performances in hospitals, hospices, and senior living centers; to in-school, supplemental music education led by ESO musicians at local primary schools – for the community to engage with the ESO and experience live orchestra music.
“The Chicago Federation of Musicians is proud to represent the extraordinary artists of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. This ensemble is a vital part of the cultural fabric of its community and an important source of employment. Historic institutions such as the ESO deserve strong community and municipal support. With this contract, the Union and Management set the stage for an era of stability and growth which we hope will reverse the reduction in performances reflected within the hard-won agreement,” BJ Levy, President, Chicago Federation of Musicians, Local 10-208.
The ESO’s opens its 75th season with concerts on Saturday, Sept. 28, and Sunday, Sept. 29, featuring Ravel’s Bolero and Classical Guitarist Ana Vidovic, who will perform Rodrigo’s Fantasia para un gentilhombre.