Announcement from The President

Of course he's extremely pleased.  He's 'That Guy' ... the one who brought down and gutted a world-class orchestra in just a month.     September 26, 2012 Dear Friends, I am extremely pleased to share that the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has reached an agreement with our musicians on a union contract for the next two years. The new agreement covers the period from September 23, 2012, through September 6, 2014, and amounts to $2.4 million in annual savings through contract concessions in each year of the contract. Our new contract positions the Orchestra for a fiscally sound future, which will allow us to continue our tradition of innovation and world-class music-making. A copy of our news release, which includes details for the terms of the contract, is here. This new agreement is an important step in addressing the Orchestra's nearly $20 million accumulated deficit. This contract, together with other initiatives, will allow us to close our annual $5 million budget shortfall, leading to a financially stable future. As we've worked over the last six months toward this contract, it was clear that, despite our differences, we all envisioned the same thing: a thriving music community that would flourish for decades to come. I am deeply grateful to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Players Association and the musicians for their commitment, passion, and ongoing partnership. Let the music begin! Sincerely, Stanley E. Romanstein, Ph.D. President & CEO Atlanta Symphony Orchestra