Phoenix Symphony suspends season, plans layoffs of 66 musicians

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 26 Oct, 05:01 · Archive

The Phoenix Symphony is suspending its season after a performance on 1 November and laying off all 66 musicians.

The Phoenix Symphony announced Tuesday that it was suspending its season after the performance scheduled for 1 November, with musician layoffs to begin the next day. All 66 musicians will lose their jobs, with their health insurance ending a week later.

The musicians say they were not informed beforehand. Musician Harry Gonzalez said: 'We were engaged in negotiations with the board of directors and attending in good faith. And we ended up finding out just at the same time that everybody else did, which was shocking.' Gonzalez, who is in his third season after dozens of auditions, said he was 'blindsided' by the announcement.

The musicians are now demanding transparency and access to financial records. They want to know what happened to the $60 million fundraising campaign and where reserves are held. One musician said: 'It's not a decision that is necessary.' The musicians say they are not asking the community to save the orchestra without a plan, but want the board to share numbers so they can help find a solution. Gonzalez said: 'With transparency, we can also join and try to help figure out whatever deficit there is.'

How it is being reported

• Phoenix Symphony musicians ask for answers in fight to save orchestraThe Phoenix Symphony’s musicians said they aren’t ready for their final curtain call and are asking for answers so they can save the orchestra and 66 musicians’ jobs.Azfamily · 26 Oct, 04:25
• Phoenix Symphony musicians ask for answers in fight to save orchestraThe Phoenix Symphony’s musicians said they aren’t ready for their final curtain call and are asking for answers so they can save the orchestra and 66 musicians’ jobs.KOLD · 26 Oct, 04:25

In this story: Phoenix Symphony · Harry Gonzalez · Phoenix

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