Canadian Musicians Employment Status Archive February 3, 2000
London Musician Executive Board
Dear Paul As you are well aware, Orchestra London is facing an extremely tight cash flow situation. As discussed at length, a committee of the board has been formed to position a request for short term funding from the City of London, and is preparing a presentation soliciting increased long term "core" funding from city administration. The success of these initiatives are very important to maintain our present full time professional status. In the event that support is not granted, this same committee is forming a plan to create a public appeal for funds. This plan will attempt to galvanize support in the community at large. Though not yet approached, we would hope for support from the Grand Theater, the Art Gallery, the London Arts Council, the Economic Development Corporation, the Orchestra Advisory Council, and the Chamber of Commerce. In order to show good faith in our request for short term financing from the City of London Administration, the Orchestra London Board Of Directors has voted that a musician concession is necessary at this time. For full time musicians, the first pay in March will be withheld. This will result in a payroll savings to Orchestra London of $44,000.and represents a 6.5% decrease in pay for full time musicians. For part time contracted musicians, a reduction of 4 services (5.5%) will be deducted from the last pay of February. For the remainder of the season, extras will be paid at the rate of $73.00 per service. Though we understand that these conditions are unpleasant, a tight financial situation necessitates these measures. We look forward to your continued support.
Yours truly
David Stelpstra
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