The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) issued a statement today in solidarity with the musicians of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, members of AFM Local 6, who went on strike Saturday, September 12:

The AFM fully supports the musicians in San Francisco and pledges the resources necessary to support Local 6. The San Francisco Opera Orchestra members are world-class professionals who provide the foundation for the company’s productions. Asking the musicians to absorb pay cuts or endure a five-year wage freeze while living in an expensive region undermines the orchestra and the institution itself.

Musicians cannot counter the cost of living on prestige alone. A five-year wage freeze is a pay cut when adjusted for inflation. If management continues this path, they lose talent and damage the San Francisco Opera’s reputation.

Management’s claims of an unsustainable deficit conflict with the company’s donor base, recent financial support, and strong ticket sales. It is contradictory for San Francisco Opera leadership to demand sacrifices from musicians while executive compensation grows. 

Our musicians want to perform, but they require a fair contract. We urge General Director Matthew Shilvock and the Board of Directors to return to the bargaining table immediately with a contract that respects the value these musicians bring to the community.