Open Letter to ASOC Chorus Members

Dear Chorus Friends: 

We have been on the receiving end of numerous emails and visits from both sides of the contract dispute. Throughout the painful process, many of us have expressed concern – publicly and privately – as to how we can best show support for our symphony colleagues. Those of us who are on Facebook are receiving links, which we publish to help disseminate updates and information. But it has been unclear how chorus members can show support for the Atlanta Symphony Musicians in a material way.

We are writing to tell you about two additional ways that chorus members can show support:

1.The Music is Ongoing' T-Shirt. Taking orders right now! If you have attended chorus rehearsals, the significance of these words will not be lost on you. The purchase price of the shirt includes a donation to the players’ union. Post a t-shirt link in your update on Facebook.  We want support for Atlanta Symphony Musicians, in the form of t-shirt sales, to go global!  

2. Concert Participation. Because the lock-out is currently in place, Atlanta Symphony Musicians have begun to hold a series of concerts in the community. They have expressed a wish that singers be a part of these concerts. Current chorus members, as well as past members, are invited. The concerts represent a vital part of the players’ core mission statement: to stay connected with the city where they live, work, and raise their families. Players take their musicianship and their ability to reach the public very seriously. As soon as venues are announced, a concert schedule and program information will be posted here on the ASOC Singers and Friends site, and on the Atlanta Symphony Musicians Facebook page as an Event where you can pledge your participation.

The players are fighting not only for their livelihoods, but for their rightful place as one of America’s top-tier symphony orchestras. The situation is very serious and there are no guarantees as to the outcome. Moreover, there are no guarantees that our visible backing of the musicians won’t cause trouble for those involved, or for those in management that we care about. But don’t forget: the ASOC’s history as, arguably, one of the finest symphony choruses on the planet is the story of a partnership. Over the years, we singers have committed our talents, hearts, and a sizeable chunk of our existence to this organization. And if we believe what we have constantly been told -- that we are an important member of this ‘family’ -- we can no longer be neutral on this issue nor blind to the reality that this partnership, which we value so highly, is in danger. To wit: a cut in the quality of the symphony orchestra compromises the chorus’ standing as a premier institution.

Please acknowledge your support when the opportunity is presented to you. If you are on Facebook, please ‘like’ the ATLSymphonyMusicians and you will receive all pertinent details on the community concerts on your newsfeed.  You'll be able to update your status with the latest links, sending the message out into the community and beyond.

If you know of interested parties who are not on Facebook, please provide us with contact information, and we will send them a link to this site by email.

Keep the conversation going. Visit the ASOC Singers and Friends community often, and talk it up!  And contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Sally Kann and Cyn Goeltz-DeBold