NMSO, musicians reach agreement

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - After months without a paycheck, New Mexico Symphony Orchestra musicians say they're willing to take a pay cut to come back to work.

The musicians' contract ended in August.

Since then, they've been battling through negotiations with management. At times they said they wouldn't accept any cuts.

The word on Sunday was that the musicians accepted management's last offer of a 23 percent pay cut.

The majority of the symphony will make less than $17,000.

However if fundraising goals are met, the musicians will receive small bonus payments.

NMSO CEO Eric Meyer told News 13 that the sluggish economy has cut contributions.

The board is projecting a $900,000 budget shortfall for the symphony.

Several concerts were canceled during negations.