AGMA and the New York Philharmonic have reached a new three-year agreement that delivers strong wage increases, expanded workplace protections, improved scheduling, and greater recognition of Choristers’ work. The agreement also strengthens health and safety protections while advancing equity and inclusion. This agreement was approved by AGMA members and ratified by AGMA’s Board of Governors on July 13, 2026.
Thank you to the negotiating committee and congratulations to the Chorus!
CONTRACT HIGHLIGHTS
Economic Gains
Wage Increases
- Year 1:
- 5% increase to performance rates
- 5% increase to all other rates
- Year 2:
- 4% increase to all rates
- Year 3:
- 4% increase to all rates
- Choristers assigned a solo of 50 bars or more will now be paid at the Soloist/Narrator rate
Scheduling Improvements
- Rehearsals with the orchestra must now be confirmed at least 45 days in advance
- Non-subscription gala and pops rehearsals must be confirmed at least 14 days in advance
- If schedules are confirmed late, Artists will be paid based on the maximum rehearsal schedule originally offered
- If an Artist is released from any portion of a rehearsal, that release cannot later be rescinded
Health, Safety & Equity
- Updated health and safety language now covers future COVID-19 variants and other respiratory illnesses
- Artists are guaranteed the right to wear a face mask during rehearsals and performances
- Expanded anti-discrimination protections now explicitly include transgender Artists, as well as protections against discrimination based on body size, height, and weight.
Additional Improvements
- New rebroadcast fee for each additional broadcast beyond what is permitted under the agreement
- Best efforts to avoid scheduling rehearsals and performances on major religious holidays, including:
- Good Friday
- Easter Sunday
- Passover
- Rosh Hashanah
- Yom Kippur
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas