Honolulu – The musicians and management of the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra announced today that they have reached a new three-year collective bargaining agreement, effective immediately and effective through September 2011. The agreement between the Symphony and Local No. 677 of the American Federation of Musicians will enable the organization to continue to offer all of Hawaii’s residents the inspiring Symphony education opportunities that contribute significantly to community life across the State.
 
Musician base salaries will not increase for the current 2008-2009 season. Over the next three years, the new contract will result in a 12.5% increase, bringing the musician base salary to over $40,000 by the end of the contract year of 2011. The Musicians Association of Hawaii Local No. 677, American Federation of Musicians, and the Board of Directors of the Honolulu Symphony voted to accept the terms of the new contract on Friday, September 5, 2008.
 
“The musicians’ commitment to serving the people of Hawaii and enriching the community with educational opportunities of the highest artistic quality continues to make the Honolulu Symphony one of the most vital non-profit organizations in the State,” said Tom Gulick, executive director, Honolulu Symphony.
 
“Much credit goes to the Musicians Association and volunteers from the Board for their spirit of cooperation and openness throughout the negotiating process,” continued Gulick. “The new contract is an important step towards continued financial stability for the Symphony, as we continue to make strides in audience development and extension of music education programs for both children on Oahu and across the Islands.”
 
“Now that a contractual agreement has been reached, the Honolulu Symphony Musicians can continue to do what they do best - bringing the experience of hearing a world class Symphony Orchestra to Hawaii's people.  We appreciate the support of the Orchestra Musicians throughout the negotiations, and the good faith of Management's negotiating team. We are looking forward to three years of successful music making to come,” added Musician’s Association of Hawaii President, Brien Matson.
 
“The newfound vitality of the Honolulu Symphony – from the promising new concert season to the ongoing work in classrooms teaching and mentoring young people – can be attributed in large part to the loyalty the musicians have always held for the people of Hawaii,” said Jeffery A. Minter, chairman, Honolulu Symphony Board of Directors. “The next step towards achieving a truly solid position for the organization as a whole is the continued support and respect of community members, as well as City and State government.”