AGMA and Grant Park Music Festival have reached a new three-year agreement that delivers wage increases across the life of the contract, strengthens opportunities and protections for Choristers, and gives AGMA members a stronger voice in the future leadership of the organization. The agreement also includes improvements to auditions, rehearsal conditions, and workplace equity. This agreement was approved by AGMA members and ratified by AGMA’s Board of Governors on June 1, 2026.
Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations to the Chorus!
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS
Economics
- 3% wage increases across the board in each year of the agreement
- Small group fee updated so that all programs use the same percentage structure
Strengthening the Chorus
- Creation of a new Core Supplementary Chorus
- New language clarifying when Regular Choristers lose Regular status if they do not accept the minimum number of programs
- Volunteer Choristers limited to four individuals in one program per season
- Stronger protections for paid professional chorus work
- New Chorister orientation program established
Auditions and Professional Development
- All vocal categories will now prepare the same number of excerpts or selections for auditions
- Written audition feedback available upon request
- Dedicated time provided for AGMA participation during orientation
Artist Voice and Representation
- Guaranteed AGMA member representation on search committees for:
- President and CEO
- Artistic Director and Principal Conductor
- Chorus Director
- Permanent Guest Chorus Director
Rehearsal and Working Conditions
- Individual music stands provided for all Artists at piano rehearsals
- Dedicated dressing room space provided on two-call days when one call is a performance
- Clarified limitations on warm-up rehearsals
D.E.I.
- Updated DEI language expands protected categories
- Strengthened commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace for all Artists