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Opera Strike Ends: Musicians Reach Tentative Deal
18 Sep
Summary
- Musicians and opera reach tentative four-year contract deal.
- Strike caused opening night cancellation nearly a week ago.
- Contract ratification expected soon for Verdi's 'Simon Boccanegra'.
A tentative four-year contract has been reached between the San Francisco Opera and its orchestra, resolving a strike that forced the cancellation of opening night. This agreement, effective from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2030, allows performances to resume with Verdi's "Simon Boccanegra" once ratified by the union.
The strike highlighted the financial challenges facing classical music companies, even those considered relatively healthy like the San Francisco Opera. The opera had sought salary freezes and structural changes due to declining workloads and an annual deficit of $15 million.
Musicians, represented by the American Federation of Musicians Local 6, had rejected proposals for a salary freeze, citing rising costs. The tentative deal is expected to provide both fair compensation and stability for the orchestra members, with details beyond the duration yet to be released.
