Connecticut’s Hartford Symphony Orchestra Approves New Contract for Musicians

After 17 months of negotiations, the new agreement is retroactive to September 1, 2023, and will last through August 31, 2027

Represented by the American Federation of Musicians Local 400, the Hartford Symphony Orchestra’s (HSO) new collective bargaining agreement involves a 20% pay increase and larger annual bonuses for those with seniority. 

According to the Hartford Courant, changes prior to ratification included improving the structure of educational and outreach programs so they are easier to produce, and the removal of some clauses that called for a reduction of the orchestra.

Contract negotiations also centered on the launch of HSO’s BIPOC fellowship program. Funded by the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, the two-year fellowship will see candidates serve as regular orchestra members, and have the opportunity to audition for permanent positions following the program.

The musicians’ previous contract expired in August 2022. The new agreement affects 86 tiered musicians — 31 of whom are core members, 23 of whom form the “basic orchestra,” and another 25 who form the “full orchestra” arrangement, plus musicians who perform with the orchestra, but are not regular members.

These musicians all receive the same basic pay scale — a set fee for either a rehearsal or performance — with the higher-tiered performers playing a greater number of concerts. 

“We are very pleased to have ratified an agreement that promises reasonable increases in pay and security in a number of important working conditions,” said AFM Local 400 president Joe Messina and orchestra committee co-chair Steve Wade in the Metro Hartford. 

“We agree with our Board of Directors and with new Board Chair Bob Bausmith that Hartford is an important and thriving city in our region, and we are looking forward to performing great music for our community for years to come,” they continued. “In addition, we are excited to participate in a fellowship program that will put young BIPOC string players side by side with us as colleagues. Opportunities like this one are important for young players and for the future of classical music in our country.”

“We are pleased that an agreement has been reached with the American Federation of Musicians,” added HSO’s president and CEO, Steve Collins. “Both teams worked tirelessly to find solutions to challenges and reach compromises where needed, all in the spirit of mutual respect and collaboration. We look forward to continuing the celebration of the HSO’s 80th season!”