Posted on 09/14/19
| News Source: WBALTV
BALTIMORE —
The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra took the stage Saturday night even though musicians haven't returned to work.
Musicians were locked out in June after failing to reach an agreement with management. Management lifted the lockout this week, but musicians refused to rehearse without a contractual agreement and they filed an unfair labor practice claim with the National Labor Relations Board this week.
Still, they performed at New Shiloh Baptist Church in west Baltimore, where the theme for the special performance was celebrating Baltimore, community and the power of music.
It comes a day after BSO management announced the postponement of two season-opening concerts due to the ongoing labor dispute.
BSO music director and conductor Marin Alsop volunteered her time for the performance.
The union is arguing management unlawfully locked musicians out and failed to provide relevant information during the bargaining process.
Alsop said this is the only orchestra founded by a city for its residents. She called it a unique relationship.
"That sense of partnership and community is something we're completely committed to continuing," Alsop said.
"We have to do everything we can to hold onto these musicians and hold onto our orchestra, including those in government like myself, putting ourselves aside to figure out how we can be a part of the solution to make sure that we save this great orchestra," Baltimore City Council President Brandon Scott said.
Saturday's performance was produced by the Baltimore Symphony Musicians, not the BSO. A representative for the musicians said Alsop's presence spoke volumes because this is the first time she has conducted a performance not produced by the BSO.