SF Symphony Season Opener Canceled Due to Chorus Strike

The San Francisco Symphony canceled its season opener of Giuseppe Verdi’s Requiem just two hours before opening night on Thursday after union members of the San Francisco Symphony Chorus announced a strike.

SF Symphony representatives said the three Sept. 19-21 concerts will not be rescheduled, and that ticket holders have the option to either exchange their tickets for tickets to another 2024-25 performance or a gift certificate; convert tickets into a tax-deductible donation; or receive a full refund.

A picket line had formed outside of Davies Symphony hall at 6 p.m. Thursday.

The chorus’ 32 paid singers are represented by the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), and have been in contract negotiations with Symphony leadership since May. The labor dispute hinges on proposed budget cuts to the chorus, which union representatives say is already the lowest-paid segment of the Symphony.

While Symphony leadership offered to maintain current chorus wages for the 2024-25 season, union representatives said they were dissatisfied with management’s proposal of a 10% pay cut for 2025-26.

“I cannot recall the last time AGMA went on strike, but management has repeatedly failed to show how targeting the Symphony’s internationally acclaimed Choristers will solve their alleged financial issues,” said AGMA President Ned Hanlon. “We urge management to immediately return to the bargaining table and work toward a real solution that honors the work of these dedicated artists and gets everyone back to creating beautiful music.”

In a statement, Symphony leadership said they were negotiating in good faith with the chorus. “We are eager to continue working with AGMA, and we are committed to reaching an agreement as soon as possible.”