Musicians with one of Massachusetts’ largest professional orchestras receive pay increase, new benefits
HYANNIS, MA—November 2, 2022
Musicians of the Cape Symphony have unanimously ratified a new contract with the Cape Symphony that delivers a pay increase and additional benefits over the next two years.
According to the Cape Symphony, the new contract, which went into effect on July 1, 2022 and covers the 69 full-time professional musicians, provides a 5% increase for the 2022/23 season and a 4% increase in the 2023/24 season. For the first time, Cape Symphony musicians will be offered the option to participate in the non-profit organization’s 401(k) retirement plan. Also new is an insurance program for musicians’ instruments and an agreement on a new special events category that will enable the organization to bring the orchestra to smaller stage configurations and venues, exploring new possibilities in the community.
“The positive experience of our union negotiations represents a collaborative look forward and the start of a new era for our organization. The amazing musicians of the Cape Symphony are more than deserving and we are excited about our future working together to bring the best to the Cape and Islands,” said Michael Albaugh, Cape Symphony Executive Director.
The Cape Symphony musicians are members of the Boston Musicians’ Association (BMA), a labor union representing over 1,600 professional musicians in the Boston metro area and beyond. “We are pleased that the Collective Bargaining Agreement was ratified unanimously by the musicians of the Cape Symphony,” said Pat Hollenbeck, President, BMA.
Robert Couture, Vice President, BMA, said, “We appreciate the executive team’s efforts to bring the Cape Symphony to the next level as a significant professional orchestra in our community. We wish the Cape Symphony all the best.”
“The new contract is the result of months of productive conversations between the musicians of the Cape Symphony and the Symphony leadership,” said Dave Rufino, Orchestra Committee Chair. “We thank the Boston Musicians Association, the Cape Symphony executive team, and the Board of Trustees for their hard work in achieving a deal that responds to the needs of professional musicians and the organization. We are excited for the future and the commitment to provide the best live performances on Cape Cod.”
“This new contract is the result of outstanding collaboration between our executive team and musicians, and the Board is grateful for their dedication and commitment,” said Anthony Panebianco, Chair, Cape Symphony Board of Trustees. “I would also like to thank our customers, students, donors, friends, and local business partners; their support makes it possible for the Cape Symphony to grow and thrive.”
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About Cape Symphony
At the Cape Symphony, our mission is to Inspire Joy. We do this through outstanding entertainment and educational programs. Cape Cod’s very own professional orchestra, the Cape Symphony, performs at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center in Hyannis. From popular hits to magnificent classics, highlighting hidden gems and putting a new twist on standards, the emphasis is always on fun, surprises, and beautiful music. The Cape Symphony commitment to education for all ages includes private lessons, classes and ensembles at campuses in Barnstable and Falmouth as well as online. Its acclaimed preschool program is known for blending traditional academics with the arts. Through community outreach, the Cape Symphony brings an array of engaging programs to the Cape Cod community. Visit www.capesymphony.org for more information.
