On Oct. 22, Richmond Symphony and the musicians of Richmond Symphony, represented by the local American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (Local AFM) 123, announced the ratification of a new five-year collective bargaining agreement covering this season through 2031.

The five-year agreement, an unusually long term for an orchestral collective bargaining agreement, provides meaningful stability for those involved. It reflects a collaborative negotiating process grounded in shared commitments to Richmond Symphony’s musicians, artistic advancement, organizational strength, and service to the Greater Richmond community.

“Our musicians are at the heart of Richmond Symphony’s artistic presence and the impact that brings to our stage and throughout our community,” said Lacey Huszcza, President and CEO of Richmond Symphony, in a press release. “This agreement represents a significant and sustained investment in their artistry, well-being, and professional experience. Its five-year term also provides meaningful stability as we plan for the future. The critical work around an equitable and transparent tenure process is also a shared goal that we worked hard to realize with this contract – something deeply needed across the industry. I am grateful to the members of both negotiating teams for approaching this process with openness, respect, and a shared commitment to building a strong future for Richmond Symphony.”

Key elements of the agreement include:

• Five years of stability: Establishes one of the longest collective bargaining agreements in Richmond Symphony’s history and maintains an orchestra of 69 roster musicians, including 45 core orchestra positions, throughout the contract
• Meaningful growth in compensation and benefits: Provides an approximately 24% increase in musician salaries over the five-year term, along with increased health-insurance coverage
• Stronger hearing protections: Advances protections designed to reduce the risk of occupational hearing loss and support musician health and well-being
• A more equitable and transparent tenure process: Establishes orientation for musicians entering the tenure process, clearly communicated timelines, greater clarity about evaluation criteria, and more consistent procedures across individual experiences
• Continued artistic and community commitments: Continues the use of the Symphony Wardrobe and preserves shared commitments to artistic decision-making, community impact, and educational engagement, including work in public schools and with Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra Program ensembles

The agreement was developed through negotiations between Richmond Symphony management and the musicians’ Negotiations Committee co-chaired by Peter Greydanus and Alison Hall. AFM Local 123 negotiator Jane Owen provided leadership and expertise throughout the process.

Read Related Stories

• Richmond Symphony Names New Assistant Conductor

• Richmond Symphony Extends Valentina Peleggi’s Contract