Phoenix - Symphony musicians take pay cut

Tuesday, May 19, 2009,

Phoenix Business Journal

The Phoenix Symphony and Phoenix Symphony Musicians reached an agreement to reduce salaries by $2 million over the next three years.

The musicians have agreed to an aggregate 17 percent pay cut over the next three seasons. Along with the musicians, music director Michael Christie and President and CEO Maryellen Gleason agreed to the same pay cut, as well as the symphony's administrative and artistic staff.

This reduces minimum salary for these professional musicians to $35,000, said Charles Berginc, chairman of the orchestra committee. He said it’s a sacrifice worth making to keep the symphony viable this season.

This step follows voluntary staff pay cuts, layoffs, furloughs and reduction of guest artist fees. In addition, administrative and program budget costs have been trimmed.

With a $30 million annual economic impact, the symphony offers nearly 200 concerts around the Phoenix area, performing primarily in Symphony Hall at Phoenix Convention Center.

Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon said it is a privilege to have a live orchestra in the city. “I challenge everyone in our community to continue supporting this effort by making a contribution today,” Gordon said. “Let’s not take this treasure for granted.”