The union for Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians has authorized the first strike in the ensemble's 145-year history, according to a statement released Saturday by the Boston Musicians' Association. This development comes ahead of the expiration of the union's current three-year contract at 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
Strained relations between the orchestra and management have been evident since March, when the BSO decided to end the contract of music director Andris Nelsons after 13 seasons. The union stated that despite the recent leadership decision regarding Nelsons, management has failed to reach a collective bargaining agreement that would help rebuild trust and offer a fair contract to the musicians.
The union also indicated that management has not agreed to their proposal for mediation. BSO CEO Chad Smith acknowledged the musicians' right to take this action as part of the negotiation 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."
The BSO's season is currently scheduled to begin on September 17.