FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — Fort Wayne Philharmonic musicians took their cause to the doors of Barrett McNagny law firm on East Berry Street where negotiations continue after the players association went on strike Thursday over wages and availability.
Negotiations picked up again Monday at 2 p.m. regarding a strike that has affected holiday programs such as the popular Holiday Pops concert, but both sides failed to reach an agreement Monday after nearly five hours of negotiating.
Attorney Anthony Stites, representing management, told WANE 15 he would not be able to make statements during negotiations. Around 4 p.m., Sara Manning, project manager for the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, sent an email saying both parties were “still at the table. We will keep you apprised of any developments as they become available.”
However, Campbell MacDonald, the players’ association chair, did reveal some of the musicians’ demands just before entering the law firm as one of a small team of negotiators.
Musicians are currently asking for an 8% raise over what they were given two years ago during negotiations. As of now, the base salary is $22,000 a year.
In a statement, Manning said the Philharmonic offered a 12 percent increase for a three year contract over musician’s current wages, but their current salaries are a pandemic pay cut from what they were making in 20-20.
The two sides have met nine times since the players’ contract ran out in August.
They are also fighting the elimination of three...
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