Deadline arrives for SPCO musicians to vote on contract

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Monday is the last day for St. Paul Chamber Orchestra musicians to vote on a new labor deal that will save the remainder of the season.

Minnesota Public Radio says the deadline for the ratification was extended by a week to add new language in the contract regarding artistic control.

Despite reaching a tentative agreement to end a six-month-long lockout, the SPCO was forced to cancel concerts through May 5.

If approved, the new contract will cut salaries by $15,000 and the size of the orchestra would be reduced by six players. The musicians would get more artistic control over the performances and repertoire.

Across the river, Minnesota Orchestra management has called off concerts through May 12. The orchestra’s musicians have been locked out since Oct. 1 over a similar labor dispute.

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