Dr. Stanley Rommenstein, president of the
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra poses in the
Woodruff Arts Center.
Photo from WoodruffCenter.org,
- The deficit for Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 was $2.7M...inclusive of $1.8M in non-sustainable sources (i.e. bequests and one-time gifts. Without them, the true operating deficit is $4.5M.
- The ASO has been running an annual deficit of nearly $5M and the accumulated deficit is approaching $20M.
- Average compensation of the musicians is $131,000, which currently includes 100% free health and dental coverage, free instrument insurance, retirement pension, and eight (8) weeks of paid vacation.
- Since 2006, average staff compensation has been reduced by 1.7%. During this same period, average musician compensation has risen 23.6%.
- 68 staff members have agreed to forego raises, endure layoffs, accept weeks of mandatory furloughs, and to contribute to a healthcare plan.
- Ticket costs are slightly higher.
- Donors have made even greater personal financial contributions.
"It is true that the musicians allowed their contract to expire on August 25, despite an offer on the negotiating table, so they are no longer being paid a salary. The musicians are now inactive employees, and therefore ineligible for benefits.
We have presented the Musicians’ Union with our last, best, and final offer — they have yet to respond."