Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Reaches Landmark Three-Year Contract with Musicians
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and its musicians have agreed to a new three-year contract featuring significant pay increases and revised audition processes that could set industry standards.
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 contract includes important operational changes designed to expand audiences and strengthen revenue, positioning the BSO to remain a cultural cornerstone for future generations. The negotiations were characterized by months of open dialogue with mutual goals from both parties.
Jeremy Buckler, chair of the Players' Committee, emphasized that the new contract enables the orchestra to build on its legacy of world-class artistry while attracting and retaining the next generation of musicians. The agreement incorporates revised audition and tenure review processes that have the potential to become a new industry standard, featuring blind auditions without resume screening and eliminating trial weeks to ensure equal opportunity for all candidates.
The terms of the ratified agreement, effective from September 15, 2025, to September 10, 2028, include steady annual pay increases of 3 percent in year one, 4 percent in year two, and 5 percent in year three. The contract maintains competitive benefits including 11 weeks of paid vacation, at least 30 days of sick leave, employer-paid pension contributions, and comprehensive medical and dental coverage. More information about the BSO can be found at https://www.bsomusic.org.
Board Chair Barry Rosen credited the successful negotiations to respect, transparency, and shared aspirations between management and musicians. The new operational and scheduling flexibility gives the BSO greater ability to meet audience expectations and respond to new performance opportunities, helping to sustain growth in musician compensation through increased revenues.