DSO Strike: The Show Must Go On?
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra has scheduled a special chamber recital for Monday during an ongoing strike by its musicians.
Symphony management said patrons with pre-purchased tickets for weekend concerts canceled due to the strike may attend Monday's Orchestra Hall performance by violinist Sarah Chang and pianist Robert Koenig free of charge.
"We're delighted that Sarah and Robert have chosen to offer this opportunity for the public to join us at Orchestra Hall for a special chamber recital on Monday," said DSO President & CEO Anne Parsons, in a statement. "We are sad to have lost the opportunity to hear Sarah with the Orchestra this weekend and we welcome this gift to our patrons and the metro Detroit community."
Musicians began picketing Monday. Management last month began implementing a 33 percent base pay cut for orchestra veterans in the first year. Musicians had offered a 22 percent reduction.
Musicians Union Spokesperson Hayden McKMcCay patrons shoudn' t expect the orchestra to be anywhere near the stage while the strike continues.
"What troubles us even more than being on strike is now seeing that they've scheduled a replacement concert. We would really much prefer to see management come back to the table and try to bargain in good faith, instead of just making the same offer -- rather than try to pretend that they can have a season with no orchestra," McKay said.
McKay said musicians plan to picket the performance.
Management said it has offered to meet three times, but hasn't received a response from the union.
Meantime, striking DSO musicians are hosting a concert series of their own. Get details at this link.
© MMX WWJ Radio, All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to his report.
