Musicians of The New York City Ballet Orchestra Vote to Authorize Strike

The musicians of the New York City Ballet Orchestra, represented by the NYC musicians’ union (AFM Local 802), have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, as they continue to negotiate with ballet management for a fair contract. A strike authorization vote means that musicians may choose to strike if contract talks break down.

AFM President Tino Gagliardi, who is leading the negotiations on behalf of the union, said: “These hardworking musicians bring the magic of live music to the most celebrated dancers, night after night. They are cultural ambassadors who help make New York City the artistic capital of the world. They deserve a contract that allows them to work with dignity and enjoy affordable healthcare for themselves and their family. Instead, they are not being offered the wages and benefits they deserve and are instead being asked to make financial concessions once again. This is insulting and unacceptable, and musicians are fighting back.”

Local 802 President Sara Cutler, who represents the musicians of the New York Ballet Orchestra, said: “We urge the ballet to do the right thing and offer a fair proposal to its musicians that makes up for the sacrifices they were forced to endure during the pandemic, as well as staggering inflation. We’ll do everything in our power to assist these courageous musicians in their fight for the dignity and respect they deserve.” 

Local 802 represents thousands of highly skilled musicians who drive New York City’s thriving cultural and tourism economy. Its members -- who perform on Broadway, at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and Radio City, in recording studios, as teaching artists, on late-night TV shows and in other televised bands, in hotels, clubs, festivals and venues across NYC -- are protected by collective bargaining agreements ensuring proper classification, fair treatment and a living wage.