New West Symphony reaches collective bargaining agreement

New West Symphony, represented by Local 581 of the American Federation of Musicians, voted overwhelmingly to approve a new collective bargaining agreement. The agreement is through the 2005-06 season.

"The five-member orchestra committee, the union representative and symphony representatives each approached these negotiations with the same positive, win-win attitude," said Ken Hopper, New West executive director.

"With regard to compensation, our goal was to recognize the musicians’ high artistry and to remain competitive with other L.A.-area orchestras, while responsibly managing the symphony’s finances. The outcome, an 11 percent increase over the life of the three-year agreement, is a remarkable achievement of those goals."

Boris Brott, New West music director, said he was thrilled. It reveals the spirit of collaboration between the musicians, conductor, management and board of New West, he said.