In my Cape Symphony newsletter messages this month, I've focused on the unique challenges faced by Cape Symphony. Last week, I discussed the challenges specific to  regional orchestras; today, I’ll talk about the importance and challenges of our musicians. (Missed last week's post? Check it out here.)

Dear Cape Cod Community,

One of the greatest strengths of our orchestra lies in the talent and dedication of our musicians. They are the heart and soul of everything we do, and their passion brings joy to audiences of all ages. However, it's important to recognize that as we work to ensure fair compensation and benefits for our musicians, the financial pressures on our orchestra continue to grow.

Musicians’ unions have done vital work advocating for fair wages, but the demands placed on smaller orchestras like ours can often be difficult to meet. The Cape Symphony, like many regional orchestras, operates on tight margins. As we negotiate to ensure the well-being of our artists, we must also balance the sustainability of the organization.

Without careful financial planning and community support, regional orchestras like ours face the risk of being unable to meet the needs of our musicians and maintain regular programming. These tensions affect our ability to bring you the concerts and experiences you love. To navigate these challenges, we will need to strengthen our partnerships with patrons and community members, ensuring a balanced approach that supports both the musicians and the long-term viability of the Cape Symphony.

We invite your feedback on this important issue. If you would like to support our efforts, please consider making a donation here.

Michael Albaugh
Executive Director
Cape Symphony