Strike possible in discord between musicians, Fort Worth Symphony

Following seven months of negotiations on a new contract, musicians for the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra have voted to authorize a strike. With this vote, FWSO musicians can now go on strike at any time, but are not obligated to do so, according to American Federation of Musician s Local 72-147, which represents symphony musicians.

Earlier this week, the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Association said it submitted its final offer, but said there was a $4 million gap between the two parties.

The FWSOA said its final offer will be implemented on Jan. 25. The offer includes an 8.4 percent decrease in compensation to musicians. The union said that would take salaries down to 2003 levels.

The concessions requested by the FWSOA come primarily from a reduction in paid vacation – from 42 days to 28 days, according to the group. The FWSOA is not proposing a reduction in concerts for the public.

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The musicians are set to vote on the proposal offered by the FWSOA on Friday.