Detroit Symphony Orchestra cancels season-opening concerts as musicians’ strike plays on

Detroit symphony cancels concerts amid strike

DETROIT — The Detroit Symphony Orchestra has canceled concerts amid an ongoing musicians’ strike.

Chief Executive and President Anne Parsons made the announcement Wednesday at Orchestra Hall in Detroit.

The DSO was to perform Thursday at Michigan State University’s Wharton Center, then open the season Friday in Detroit.

Orchestra officials plan to announce the status of next week’s performances Tuesday.

The musicians hit the picket line after refusing to accept pay cuts demanded by the financially struggling symphony.

Management last month began implementing a 33 percent base pay cut for orchestra veterans, from $104,650 to $70,200 in the first year. Musicians had offered a 22 percent reduction in the first year to $82,000, which would increase in subsequent years.

Online:

Musicians union: www.detroitsymphonymusicians.org

Symphony: www.detroitsymphony.com