Minnesota Orchestra And Musicians Reach New Contract Agreement

The Minnesota Orchestra and its musicians have approved a new two-year collective bargaining agreement (CBA), effective September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2028.

The agreement was reached five months ahead of the current contract’s expiration and was ratified by both the Orchestra’s Board of Directors and the musicians, who are members of the Twin Cities Musicians' Union.

Under the terms of the agreement, the musician weekly salary scale will increase by 2.5% in each year of the contract. The agreement also includes temporary changes to hiring practices intended to reduce costs by up to $2 million over the life of the contract.

Board Chair William Miller said the negotiations reflected a shared vision for the organization and its long-term sustainability. Timothy Zavadil, representing the musicians’ negotiating committee, said the agreement supports both artistic priorities and financial stability. President and CEO Isaac Thompson added that the process established a foundation for future collaboration, while union president Brad Eggen said the agreement helps maintain the Orchestra’s standing within the industry.

As the Orchestra approaches its 125th anniversary season, it has announced several initiatives for 2026–27 under Music Director Thomas Søndergård. Plans include the Sound Unbound project and a California tour with violinist Augustin Hadelich. The organization also announced that conductor-violinist Leonidas Kavakos will begin a three-year term as principal guest conductor in 2027.

Development is also continuing on the Community Performing Arts Amphitheater, an 8,000-seat venue along the Mississippi River that will be operated in partnership with First Avenue. Construction is expected to begin this spring, with the venue scheduled to open in summer 2027.

Founded in 1903, the Minnesota Orchestra is a Grammy Award-winning ensemble based at Orchestra Hall in downtown Minneapolis.

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