Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Reaches Landmark Three-Year Contract with Musicians

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and its musicians, represented by the Musicians' Association of Metropolitan Baltimore, have finalized a new three-year collective bargaining agreement that represents the most financially ambitious contract in over a decade. The agreement includes a 12 percent increase in minimum musician pay over three years, reaching $101,350 by the 2027-28 season, while maintaining the full-time musician complement at 85 positions.

Mark Hanson, president and CEO of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, stated that the agreement reflects the organization's appreciation for the musicians' artistry and dedication. The negotiations, characterized by months of open dialogue, resulted in mutual goals for growth and innovation. Jeremy Buckler, chair of the Players' Committee, emphasized that the contract enables the orchestra to build on its legacy of world-class artistry while attracting and retaining the next generation of musicians.

The agreement introduces groundbreaking changes to audition and tenure review processes that could establish new industry standards. All applicants will now be invited to live auditions without resume screening, eliminating trial weeks to ensure hiring decisions are based solely on blind auditions. The revised process guarantees every candidate equal opportunity and includes improved feedback mechanisms and formalized evaluation criteria for tenure reviews.

Operational and scheduling flexibility provisions give the BSO greater ability to meet audience expectations and respond to new performance opportunities, supporting revenue growth to sustain increased musician compensation. The competitive benefits package continues with 11 weeks of paid vacation, at least 30 days of sick leave, employer-paid pension contributions, and comprehensive medical and dental coverage.

Board Chair Barry Rosen acknowledged that the negotiations were guided by respect, transparency, and shared aspirations. The ratified agreement, effective from September 15, 2025, to September 10, 2028, includes structured annual pay increases: 3% in the first year, 4% in the second year, and 5% in the third year. More information about the BSO can be found at https://www.bsomusic.org.

This agreement represents a significant development in orchestra labor relations, potentially influencing how other cultural institutions approach musician compensation and hiring practices. The financial commitment to musician salaries, combined with progressive audition reforms, positions the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra as a leader in addressing equity and sustainability challenges facing performing arts organizations nationwide.