(Photo credit: Aimee Hancock)

On June 18, musicians of the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra, represented by American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 101-473, rallied to defend the future of the organization.

They were joined by community members, arts advocates, and supporters at Epiphany Lutheran Church where they called on the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (DPAA) to reverse course on programming cuts that threaten the orchestra and the livelihoods of its musicians. At the rally, the Players Committee also presented a petition signed by nearly 1,800 community members opposing the proposed cuts.

Under a banner that read, “Creativity Not Cuts,” speakers made the case that cuts to the arts are cuts to Dayton’s quality of life, that a community cannot cut its way to growth, and that keeping a world-class symphony in Dayton means keeping its professional artists fairly employed. Many in the crowd wore blue in solidarity with the musicians, who are in active contract negotiations with the DPAA.

The Committee expressed no confidence in DPAA Chief Executive Officer Patrick Nugent and Chief Financial and Operating Officer Teri Warwick. This verdict comes as contract negotiations continue between the musicians’ union and the performing arts organization ahead of the expiration of the current contract Aug. 31.

The DPAA told the Dayton Daily News that it is aware of the rally, and that the organization is focused on coming to an agreement that works for everyone. The Alliance said, “We recognize that contract negotiations can be challenging and emotional. Our focus remains on the bargaining table, where meaningful progress is made and agreements are reached. Our priority continues to be reaching an agreement that supports our musicians, serves our audiences, and strengthens the financial stability and long-term vitality of the organization.”

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