General Manager Peter Gelb to Take Over Labor Negotiations for The Met

The New York Times reports that the Metropolitan Opera's general manger Peter Gelb will now take over labor negotiations with the organization's 16 unions. Four years ago, Gelb had assigned the task to Joseph Volpe in an unanticipated move. Contracts are up at the end of July, and now Gelb will lead the process of reaching new agreements.

"I think it's the appropriate time, now that I've had the experience of overseeing from the sidelines several negotiations, to assume the lead position," Gelb told the Times. "[Volpe's] role and importance in the history of the Met is unchallenged, and certainly my desire is to continue to seek his advice, which is very valuable."

Read the original report here.

There are concerns from some union officials used to dealing with Volpe for years at the Met that Gelb taking over will launch a series of tense negotiations.

Commenting on the possibility of controversy in the upcoming talks, executive director of the American Guild of Musical artists Alan S. Gordon said: "The loss of Joe Volpe from the bargaining table at the upcoming union negotiations between the Metropolitan Opera and the singers' union exponentially increases the likelihood of a strike.

Others, such as Tino Gagliardi, the president of Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians, have no problem with the transition and are simply looking for a fair conclusion.

Gelb is planning to finish all negotiations by deadline, and said he wants to use his skills as general manager to present the Met's side himself. Volpe will continue to act as Gelb's consultant. Gelb will also be working with a new labor lawyer -- Howard Robbins from Proskauer.

To post a comment, you must register and login.