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Do the Twin Cities need 2 orchestras?

Both the Minnesota Orchestra and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra are in the middle of negotiating new contracts with musicians. Both face multi-million dollar deficits, and a quick resolution is unlikely. MPR explores issues at the heart of the question: Does the state need two world-class orchestras?
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Both the Minnesota Orchestra and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra are in the middle of negotiating new contracts with musicians. Both face multi-million dollar deficits, and a quick resolution is unlikely. MPR explores issues at the heart of the question: Does the state need two world-class orchestras?

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Both the Minnesota Orchestra and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra say big cuts in musicians' salaries are needed in order to stay in business. Neither has made much progress in reaching a deal with their players, as a Sunday deadline looms. Monday a federal mediator took part in the larger orchestra's talks. The chamber orchestra rejected a musicians' counter-offer.

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Contract talks between management and the musicians of the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra have hit a sour note. The Pioneer Press reports that negotiations ended Friday with no agreement in sight and a new deadline was set for Tuesday. Compensation is at the center of the negotiations.

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For five decades, the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra has touted itself as the only full-time chamber orchestra in the United States -- a prestigious ensemble noted for its international touring, recordings and Grammy Awards. But in tough labor talks that seek $1.5 million in annual savings, the SPCO is reconsidering whether it can afford full-time musicians.

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