Binghamton Philharmonic and musicians’ union reach two-year agreement

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — The Binghamton Philharmonic Orchestra and the local chapter of the American Federation of Musicians union, Binghamton Local 380, have come to terms on a two-year collective-bargaining agreement.

The deal was ratified by musicians of the 60-year-old orchestra, according to a news release issued jointly by the two groups.

The two-year deal includes a wage freeze, a significant reduction in mileage for all musicians, and the inclusion of housing for musicians who reside more than 100 miles away.

“After many hours of compromise and discussion, we are grateful to have reached an agreement with the musicians’ union,” Maureen Wilson, president of the Binghamton Philharmonic, said in the release. “Over the last several weeks, both sides recognized that we share the same goal — a professional orchestra in the Southern Tier that has long term financial stability. The Binghamton Philharmonic is looking forward toward its next 60 years.”

The Binghamton Philharmonic’s 2015-2016 season will resume on Oct. 31 with a performance of “Fantastique Halloween,” at 7:30 p.m. at the Broome County Forum Theatre, 236 Washington St. in Binghamton.