Arizona Opera Orchestra goes "red."
(PHOENIX, AZ - January 22, 2008)
In support of ongoing contract negotiations and as a demonstration of solidarity, orchestra members wore red shirts to the dress rehearsal for the upcoming Arizona Opera "Gems" concert.
AZOOMA asked this of all orchestra members playing this production, including union members, non-union members, subs and extras. All were asked to join in this activity. Since the Opera Orchestra is on stage for this concert, the red shirts were seen by all -- including management -- attending the dress rehearsal.
One musician took this to heart and even dyed her hair red!
The Negotiating Committee also held a meeting during the rehearsal break to discuss upcoming matters of importance.
Our Negotiating Committee, by the way, has done an outstanding job during this long process. They have been able to stay focused and positive, and they deserve high praise and many thanks for their devotion and dedication to the greater cause. Their sacrifices of time and energy spent in negotiations are roundly appreciated by all the Opera musicians.
This Committee has been active since March 2007 attempting to reach an agreement with Arizona Opera management on a new contract for the orchestra. They are working hard with management to gain long-term commitments and satisfactory employment terms.
Our talented and highly skilled orchestra is an essential contribution to the high quality productions of the Arizona Opera Company. The Opera Orchestra musicians continue to provide first-rate music for the Arizona Opera's productions and work under the terms of our expired contract while negotiations continue.
In the orchestral business world, this is known as "play and talk" negotiations, because while the negotiation "talk" goes on, the musicians agree to "play."
More details cannot be disclosed at this time, but more general information may be seen at our main web site:
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