The new collective bargaining agreement between AGMA and Washington Concert Opera was approved by AGMA leadership on September 23, 2024, after being ratified by the shop.
Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations on this 3-year agreement!
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS:
- Annual wage scale increases of 4%, 3%, 3% unless otherwise indicated
- Increases of approximately 2%-13% for Stage Manager/ASM “per production” rates in the first year, with the 13% being for the most used rate
- Approximately 8.8% increase for the SM/ASM hourly rate in the first year for hours beyond “per production” hours limit
- G1 Chorister rehearsal rate set at $7.50 below G2 rate – approximately 17% increase in the first year
- G1 Chorister performance rate at Lisner Auditorium set at $40.00 below G2 – approximately 7.7% increase in the first year
- G1 Chorister performance rate at the Kennedy Center set at $50.00 below G2 – approximately 8.9% increase in the first year
- Chorus rehire rate increased from 85% to 90%
- First consideration in SM/ASM hiring to returning SMs/ASMs
- Advance notification to Principal Artists regarding the version of the opera to be performed, including any memorization requirements
- Biennial auditions open to Artists who wish to audition for principal roles
- Transportation stipend increased by 20%
- Holidays to now include Maundy Thursday evening through Easter
- Management to provide acoustic shields or other sound barriers as appropriate during services with orchestra on stage