Boston Symphony Orchestra musicians authorize first strike in 145-year history

Musicians of the Boston Symphony Orchestra have voted to authorize a strike, a move that could halt performances for the first time in the institution's 145-year history. The union, Boston Musicians' Association, issued a statement Saturday, just ahead of their three-year contract's expiration at midnight Sunday.

Relations between the musicians and BSO leadership have been tense, especially since the orchestra announced in March that music director Andris Nelsons would depart next summer after a 13-season tenure. The union expressed frustration that despite this "turmoil," management has not agreed to a collective bargaining agreement that would begin to mend the damaged trust and offer fair terms.

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In spite of the turmoil of the last six months caused by BSO’s leadership decision to terminate the orchestra’s musical director, Andris Nelsons, they have failed to agree to a collective bargaining agreement that would begin to restore the trust that they have destroyed and offer a fair contract to the musicians who are at the heart and soul of the BSO.

"We respect the musicians’ right to take this step as part of the negotiating process," said BSO CEO Chad Smith. The union, however, highlighted that management has not agreed to their proposal for a mediator, indicating a continued impasse in reaching a resolution.

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We respect the musicians’ right to take this step as part of the negotiating process.