Lexington Philharmonic and Lexington Philharmonic Players Association Reach New Three-Year Agreement through 2029
Lexington, Kentucky — The Lexington Philharmonic is pleased to announce that the Lexington Philharmonic Players Association, American Federation of Musicians, Local 554-635 unanimously ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement on Monday, September 14, for the term 2026–2029.
“The three-year agreement reached by the Lexington Philharmonic Players Association and the Lexington Philharmonic is a major victory for the players and represents a serious commitment on the part of both parties to the orchestra’s future in our community,” says Orchestra Committee Chair and Principal Cello Benjamin Karp.
Key provisions of the new agreement include:
Musicians' annual wage will increase incrementally over the three-year term with an 8% increase the first year, 3% in the second, and 4% in the third.
Guaranteed services increase from 28 to 30 per person, the Tenure-Track Period is revised to a 12-month period beginning with the musician's first Service, and the grievance filing deadline is expanded.
Overnight reimbursement for traveling musicians increases by 28.5% in addition to incremental increases in mileage pay.
Revisions to audition and artistic processes, added protections for outdoor concerts including updated temperature limits, and other administrative and housekeeping changes.
“Productive negotiations have resulted in many gains for the musicians of the Lexington Philharmonic,” says Brett Evans, President-Secretary of the Lexington Musicians’ Association AFM Local 554-635.
“The financial health of the Lexington Philharmonic and the well-being of our musicians are both essential to the organization’s future,” says Carol McLeod, LexPhil Board President. “This agreement reflects a shared commitment to artistic excellence, financial sustainability, and a strong working relationship between our musicians and management, ensuring that LexPhil can continue bringing exceptional performances and meaningful programs to our community. I’m grateful for the thoughtful work and cooperation on both sides that made this agreement possible.”
