Charlotte Symphony Orchestra musicians receive salary increase

The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and the American Federation of Musicians, Local 342, have announced a new three-year agreement designed to keep the orchestra together. The new contract provides a 13.5% salary increase for musicians over the next three years. The new contract also increases minimum salaries for artists from just under $46,000 to just over $53,000.

The contract will come into force on September 1 and run until August 31, 2027.

Kwamé Ryan, who joined the organization in 2023, begins his first season as the orchestra's music director. Ryan was born in Canada and grew up in Trinidad. He discovered his passion for music at the age of nine. He is the first black music director of the Charlotte Symphony.

“I really love this city. I love this orchestra,” Ryan told WCNC Charlotte in April.

The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra's new season begins next month.