Jacksonville Symphony musicians locked out!

Dear Friends,

The symphony musicians have been in the process of negotiating a new working contract with the board and management of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra. Our past contract has expired and we had been "playing and talking" since the season began. The management has now cancelled the "play and talk" agreement and informed us that we are being locked out. The lock out is because we refused to accept cuts to our income and benefits that have already been reduced in previous contracts. Provisions that are in place to ensure artistic excellence and quality performances are also in jeopardy.

In 2001 and 2004, Jacksonville Symphony musicians accepted cuts with assurances from Symphony management that they would be able to fix structural problems thanks to our financial concessions. Obviously that was not true. Problems still exist today despite the musicians' best efforts to help. Now they expect more sacrifices from the musicians. We simply cannot continue on this course. There must be a better solution!

We believe that the people of Jacksonville want and deserve a great orchestra as its cultural core.
We have seen a lifetime of growth & development with our symphony. Over the years, the musicians have always been committed to creating the absolute best for our community! Now, we must ask our community (and its leaders) to support the musicians in this crucial time. Please help us by insisting that the board and management find better ways to ensure the continued health & prosperity of the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra!

If you are willing, please write letters and ask your friends to write to:

Jim Van Vleck, Chairman of the Board of Directors
and Alan Hopper, Executive Director
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
300 West Water Street, Suite 200
Jacksonville, FL 32202

Thank you!

The Musicians of the Jacksonville Symphony Players Association

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