Indy symphony, musicians reach agreement
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (Inside INdiana Business) – The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and its musicians have announced an agreement to provide no-cost health benefits and financial stipends to the musicians. The orchestra says the one-year agreement is part of its plan to “return world-class music to central Indiana.”
Under the terms of the agreement, the ISO will cover the costs of health coverage and provide a weekly payment of $500 for musicians beginning in January. The ISO says musicians will provide six weeks of performances as well as support community and audience engagement activities.
“Together, we are committed to bringing symphonic music back to downtown,” said James Johnson, chief executive officer of the ISO. “We are deeply appreciative of the understanding and commitment of our talented musicians and pledge to work collaboratively to engage our patrons and greater community in new and meaningful ways.”
The ISO says musicians and staff will work together to come up with reimagined programming to continue to bring music to the area during the upcoming year. Additional details are expected to be announced in the future.
Johnson says the ISO and musicians are working toward a long-term contract and hopes the collaboration builds community engagement and educational activities that connect patrons.
In July, IIB reported the ISO’s plans to cancel its 2020-21 indoor concert season.