CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Symphony Orchestra may cancel more concerts after striking musicians rejected
what it calls its last, best and final offer on a new contract.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association President Jeff Alexander called it "an exceptional,
comprehensive compensation package" in a statement early Tuesday.
Members of the Chicago Federation of Musicians voted down the offer Monday. Steve Lester, chairman of
their negotiating committee, says the union’s proposal addressed management’s concern about pension
funding "while guaranteeing the Musicians and the Orchestra the security deserved."
About 100 of the orchestra’s musicians have been on strike since March 11 . The union is at odds with the
orchestra over pension and wage issues.
The striking musicians have received support from congressmen, musical theater performers and their own
maestro, renowned Italian conductor Riccardo Muti.