Striking a chord: NSO musicians consider hitting pause on the Kennedy Center’s symphony

WASHINGTON — The music of the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) could soon fall silent if contract talks break down, leaving the Kennedy Center stage empty. Currently, the Kennedy Center and NSO musicians are at a critical standoff as they navigate complex labor negotiations.

After months of back-and-forth, the Kennedy Center has made a new, four-year contract offer to its NSO musicians. The deal includes a 12% pay increase through 2028, improved healthcare options, paid parental leave, and even a new full-time librarian position. They’re also streamlining the audition and tenure processes.

Officials say this contract would bump up the minimum base salary to $178,840 annually, with the average musician taking home about $209,325—making them some of the highest-paid orchestra members in the country, just behind the orchestras in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago. 

Despite this, there’s still tension in the air. The musicians are pushing for a 25% wage increase, citing losses they experienced during the pandemic when the NSO was benched, and they only received 65% of their salary. 

The Kennedy Center, meanwhile, is arguing that the new proposal is generous and is what's possible with the money they have. Like many cultural institutions, they say they were hit hard by the pandemic. Every employee, including the musicians, took a pay cut. So, while the orchestra’s demands for pandemic payback are understandable, the Kennedy Center says it’s not financially feasible.

So, what’s next? Well, the musicians have voted to authorize a strike. 

While both sides say they’re hopeful for a resolution, the clock is ticking. 

For now, the music plays on, as NSO concerts and events continue on schedule.

WUSA9 has reached out to the union representing NSO musicians for comment. We have yet to hear back.