The Grammy-nominated Grand Rapids Symphony led by Music Director David Lockington recently signed a four-year contract with the musicians. This ensures that Grand Rapids continues to have one of America’s leading regional orchestras.
“Given the challenges that arts organizations across the country are experiencing, this long-term agreement is a particularly significant achievement,” says Symphony President and CEO Peter Kjome. According to the National Arts Index, attendance and funding for nonprofit arts organizations has been in a decline since 2008.
“Our musicians are committed to sustaining and elevating the artistic excellence of the Grand Rapids Symphony,” says Diane Helle, violinist and co-lead negotiator for Musicians Local 56. And, Martha Bowman, principal bassoon and co-lead negotiator concurs. "Now that an agreement has been reached," Bowman says, "we look forward to focusing our energies on the concerts and educational programs that reach thousands of people across West Michigan each year.”
With the new contract, there are several things we can expect. According to Kjome, the agreement includes:
• Presenting more than 400 performances, ranging from the Richard and Helen DeVos Classical Series in the Symphony’s home at DeVos Performance Hall, to educational concerts in the schools
• Collaborating with other arts organizations in the community, including Opera Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Ballet and the Gilmore International Keyboard Festival
• Sponsoring the Symphony Chorus, Youth Symphony and Symphony Youth Choruses
• Providing comprehensive education programs that reach young people from 15 counties across West Michigan
It certainly is something Grand Rapids is fortunate to have. Want to ensure the Symphony continues to thrive? Help put the good back in do-gooder with the Grand Rapids Symphony. Here’s how:
Source: Peter Kjome, Grand Rapids Symphony; Diane Helle, Musicians Local 56; Martha Bowman, Musicians Local 56
Writer: Jennifer Wilson, Do Good Editor
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