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SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (AP) -- Musicians authorized a strike against the Philadelphia Orchestra if bargaining breaks down for an agreement to replace the four-year deal that expires on Sept. 10.
Local 77 of the American Federation of Musicians said Sunday that 95% of voting members approved the strike authorization a day earlier. In addition to an agreement on compensation and benefits, the union said it wants 15 vacant positions filled.
Base salary in 2022-23 was $152,256, including electronic media agreement wages, the union said. Each musician received a supplemental payment of $750 or $1,500 in each year of the contract.
"We are disappointed in the decision by AFM Local 77 and the musicians of the Philadelphia Orchestra to authorize a strike," management said in a statement. "We will continue to negotiate in good faith towards a fiscally responsible agreement that ensures the musicians' economic and artistic future."
The orchestra completed its summer residency at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center on Saturday.