Orchestral Players at Welsh National Opera Vote in Favor of Strike Action

81.25% of WNO players have backed a strike in protest of a proposal that would cut their salaries and reduce their hours

Members of the Musicians' Union at the Welsh National Opera (WNO) have voted overwhelmingly in favor of potential strike action, in response to a proposal that would see their employment cut from full-time to 85% — with a corresponding pay cut of 15%.

96.87% of union members voted in favor of Action Short of a Strike, while 81.25% were in favor of full strike action.

The proposals follow funding cuts from both Arts Council England and Arts Council Wales, and these cuts have been compounded by other factors such as the cost-of-living crisis, inflation, and reduced Theatre Tax Relief income. In addition, the loss in funding means the company cannot give as many performances, and revenue from ticket sales drops as a result.

MU Regional Organizer for Wales and South West England Andy Warnock noted that recently, the Welsh Government handed out £3.7m in funding for the National Museum, the National Library, and other museums and archives — but the music sector has not received equivalent support.

Earlier in 2024, a survey run by the MU found that 60% of players in the WNO's orchestra were considering leaving the ensemble, since working there is no longer financially viable. In fact, 40% of players were considering leaving the music sector altogether — a crushing indictment on the current funding levels.

"Our members don’t take ballots for potential industrial action lightly," said Naomi Pohl, MU General Secretary. "We always want to avoid full strike action if possible and WNO management need to work with us to consider alternative proposals and pursue an appropriate funding solution that will enable WNO to remain a full time company."

"These cuts could be averted with increased support from Welsh Government, Arts Council Wales, Arts Council England or a combination of the three."

"The orchestra being forced into part-time time employment will be hugely damaging to our members," said Jo Laverty, the MU National Organizer for Orchestras.

"Welsh National Opera cuts will also have a wider knock-on effect on the industry and the arts ecosystem in Wales; with ever decreasing opportunities for jobs that provide the stability and benefits of year-round employment and year-round opportunities for engagement of freelancers."

"It diminishes opportunities in the profession, it diminishes opportunities for skilled orchestral musicians in Wales, and the future of the profession for Wales’s aspiring young musicians."