Boston Symphony Orchestra and musicians extend contract for 48 hours, delaying possible first strike

Music
24 Aug 2026 • 2:34 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Boston Symphony Orchestra and musicians extend contract for 48 hours, delaying possible first strike

The Boston Symphony Orchestra says it agreed with its musicians to a 48-hour extension of their collective bargaining agreement, allowing more time for negotiations to head off what could be the first strike in the ensemble’s 145-year history.

The Boston Musicians’ Association said Saturday it had authorized a strike ahead of the expiration of the union’s three-year contract at 11:59 p.m. Sunday. The BSO said Sunday the contract had been extended to 11:59 p.m. Tuesday.

BSO CEO Chad Smith said Sunday that the extension had been agreed to pending a ratification vote by the Boston Musicians’ Association and the Boston Symphony Orchestra Players’ Committee. The unions did not respond to a request for comment.

The orchestra and management have had strained relations since BSO decided in March to force out music director Andris Nelsons next summer after 13 seasons.

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