Musicians of the Minnesota Orchestra approved a new contract on Tuesday, ending the historic lockout that dragged on for more than 15 months. The 488-day impasse was the longest work stoppage ever in the history of U.S. orchestras.
"The musicians look forward to going home to Orchestra Hall after 488 days," said clarinetist Tim Zavadil, lead negotiator for the musicians, during a news conference Tuesday evening. "We're pleased there is a settlement, and we're looking forward to getting back on stage."
Minnesota's musicians will return to Orchestra Hall for the first rehearsal on February 1, and the orchestra plans to resume a concert schedule as soon as possible.
The agreement announced on Tuesday came about after back-channel talks over the past several weeks progressed to formal negotiations.
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