San Francisco Opera Orchestra musicians perform outside amid historic strike

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Members of the San Francisco Opera Orchestra performed outside the War Memorial Opera House on Wednesday evening as contract negotiations with San Francisco Opera remained at an impasse, prompting the orchestra's first strike in its history.

The street performance featured world-class musicians who typically perform for audiences of about 3,000 inside the pit of the opera house.

"We attract the most talented musicians from all over the world and all over the country," said violinist Craig Reiss, who is in his 34th season with San Francisco Opera.

But Reiss said the orchestra's future is at stake.

"That is at risk," he said.

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The unionized musicians have been negotiating with San Francisco Opera since their contract expired at the end of July.

Reiss said management's latest proposal does not adequately address compensation.

"So far, the best deal our management has offered us is a five-year freeze of our wages, which is basically like a 20% cut," Reiss said.

The musicians drew support from SF Opera chorus singers and supporters gathered outside the venue, where signs, music, honks and cheers accompanied the demonstration.

"You're not going to be able to live in San Francisco or most of the Bay Area on what you make from the second largest opera company in the United States," Reiss said.

The strike has led to performance cancellations through Sunday. San Francisco Opera said ticket holders for canceled performances may apply the value of their tickets to another performance this season, donate the value of their tickets or request a full refund.

According to the opera company, negotiations began in May.

The organization said it is proposing a multi-year contract that phases in wage increases.

In a statement, San Francisco Opera said audience attendance and donations are increasing, but expenses are growing faster than revenue, leaving the organization with a $15 million deficit.

"A one-bedroom apartment is $5,000 and skyrocketing," Reiss said.

Musicians said their goal is to return to performing in the orchestra pit as soon as possible.

"What we want to do more than anything is be back in the pit playing. And if we can't be in the pit right now playing, we're going to bring it out front of the opera house," said English horn player Ben Brogadir, who is in his third year with San Francisco Opera.

Brogadir said music remains his primary way of communicating with audiences.

"I'm not always the most eloquent speaker, but I'm able to communicate the best through music," he said.

As negotiations continue, orchestra members said they hope their performance outside the opera house helps draw attention to their demand for higher wages and a new contract agreement.