Seattle Symphony and Opera Players’ Organization (SSOPO) COVID-19 Press Release

The Seattle Symphony and Opera Players’ Organization Reaches an Agreement with the Seattle Symphony Orchestra and the Seattle Opera During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Seattle Symphony and Opera Players’ Organization (SSOPO), the union representing the Musicians of the Seattle Symphony Orchestra (SSO), has reached an agreement with their two Employers, the SSO and the Seattle Opera (Opera), that maintains all non-salary benefits for the Musicians while they are furloughed from April 13 to June 1, 2020, due to the COVID-19 global pandemic. This agreement was reached collaboratively without either Employer waiving their commitments unilaterally.

Responsive to the financial reality of their Employers, the Musicians voted to make this unprecedented salary concession as negotiated by the SSOPO’s Orchestra Committee with the two Employers, respectively, in order to ensure the financial future of the SSO and Opera while they are unable to perform concerts. Despite not receiving their salary for the next seven weeks, the SSOPO Musicians will continue to bring music to the world community by voluntarily recording and releasing solos and chamber music online, in addition to permitting the Employers’ streaming of captured performances.

Thank you for continuing to support your SSOPO Musicians during this worldwide crisis. We will continue to support you with the healing power of music through our growing digital library of performances while you remain safely in your homes.

Follow the SSOPO and find links to our Musicians’ digital content below:

Press Release: SSOPO COVID-19 Press Release