Waco Symphony Ratifies New Collective Bargaining Agreement

On February 5, the Musicians of the Waco Symphony Orchestra ratified a three-year agreement that runs from September 1, 2023 through August 31, 2026.

It was the first full contract negotiation for the WSO musicians coming out of the pandemic and occurring at a time of change for the WSA, with the appointment of the new Music Director and working with a relatively new Executive Director. In negotiating a successor agreement at this time, the Musicians found themselves working to set the stage for a new era. In addition to negotiating wage rates and working conditions, they would be addressing long-term issues at a time of transition for the orchestra. 

Through the course of this agreement, wages will increase by 8% (2%, 3%, 3% respectively). This, in addition to the 5% increase negotiated for the 2022-23 Season represents an increase of 13% in wages since coming back from the pandemic. In addition, the mileage reimbursement paid to traveling musicians was increased by nearly 12%.

In an effort to clarify issues around existing positions, vacancies, auditions and tenure processes, a newly established set number of tenure track positions will be listed an required in the Master Agreement.  Also, audition procedures and a new tenure review process have been clarified for all these tenured positions, which now also include assistant principal string positions.

The agreement will also address issues in connection with the longstanding internship program run by the the WSA.  A new study group will be established — with musicians taking part — to continue to discuss the purpose, scope, and future of the program.

“With this new agreement, we feel that we have built new and stronger relationships with WSA Management, made some important improvements and have set the stage for exciting days to come,” said Local 72-147 President Stewart Williams. “We look forward to moving forward and building upon these solid foundations.”

Many thanks to the Orchestra Committee for its hard work through these negotiations: Kristin Mortenson (Chair), Dwight Anderson, Kyp Green, Kim Hagelstein and Nicole Paglialonga.