Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians vote to authorize a strike
The Boston Globe • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians voted unanimously to authorize their first-ever strike, providing leverage in contract negotiations set to expire Sunday night.
- The decision follows contentious talks complicated by the abrupt dismissal of music director Andris Nelsons, which has deeply divided the orchestra and its management.
- Musicians are demanding a fair contract and greater artistic input, including involvement in programming and the selection of a new music director, while management has resisted bringing in a professional mediator.
- BSO management justified Nelsons’ dismissal as necessary for future alignment, but musicians feel excluded from the decision and have lost trust in leadership.
- Both sides plan to continue negotiations over the weekend, with BSO president Chad Smith expressing commitment to reaching an agreement with competitive pay and enhanced collaboration.
