Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Strike Ends With $700K Donated
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FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — Musicians with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra have ended their three-month strike by approving a new contract bolstered by a $700,000 donation.
Symphony officials and the American Federation of Musicians on Wednesday announced terms were reached on a four-year deal.
A statement says a donor, who wishes not to be publicly identified, provided the financial gift last week to help end the strike that began September 8. The walkabout began when musicians rejected a contract that initially included pay cuts.
The orchestra was forced to cancel numerous concerts due to the strike that started in September.
The orchestra has 65 full-time musicians who earned an average $62,000 annually, plus health benefits. The new deal means a two-year pay freeze, followed by two years of slightly higher salaries.
The first paid week back for the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra musicians will be December 26.
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