Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians authorize strike amid music director drama

Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians have voted to authorize their first-ever strike as the decision to remove longtime music director Andris Nelsons continues to cause controversy.

The Boston Musicians Association said the decision to authorize a strike was unanimous. Their contract expires at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday.

"In spite of the turmoil of the last six months caused by BSO leadership's decision to terminate the Orchestra's music director, 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 the heart and soul of the BSO," the association said in a statement.

The association said management has not yet agreed to a proposal to bring in a professional mediator.

BSO music director Andris Nelsons

The orchestra announced in March that Nelsons is being forced out next summer after 13 seasons. CEO Chad Smith said the board decided not to renew the Grammy winner's contract because they "were not aligned on future vision."

Nelsons responded that it was "not the decision I anticipated or wanted." The Boston Globe reported that orchestra members have been wearing red flowers at Tanglewood this summer in support of Nelsons.

Nelsons made his first appearance for the orchestra in 2011, replacing previous music director James Levine.

Boston Symphony Orchestra responds

A BSO source familiar with the negotiations said the vote is a standard and not unexpected step as the contract deadline approaches. A strike has not yet gone into effect.

"We respect the musicians' right to take this step as part of the negotiating process. Our focus remains on the negotiations and the ongoing constructive conversations," Smith said in a statement. "We are committed to reaching an agreement with competitive pay and benefits that enhances collaboration with the Players."