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Orchestra cancels more shows

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Nov 8, 2012 at 3:02 pm

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (KNSI) The Minnesota Orchestra is canceling more concerts as a lockout of its musicians continues.

The Minnesota Orchestral Association says it has canceled or rescheduled concerts through Dec. 23. Six December programs are canceled, and five programs will be rescheduled for the 2012 holiday season.

The orchestra's management says contract negotiations with its musicians are at a standstill. Contract talks began in April, but management locked out the musicians on Sept. 30 after the two sides failed to reach a new agreement.

Management's proposal would trim average annual salaries for orchestra members from $135,000 to $89,000. A union negotiator says big salary cuts would result in a loss of talent.

Ticketholders of affected concerts will be able to exchange tickets for a future concert or receive a refund.