Traverse City Philharmonic musicians have overwhelmingly voted to join American Federation of Musicians (AFM) Local 56.
The northern Michigan professional orchestra has entertained music lovers in the region for more than seven decades. Performers worked with AFM to build out a grassroots organizing campaign so they can negotiate a contract to address workplace concerns and give workers a fair say in the institution’s future.
“The TC Phil has been my ‘home’ since age eleven, and it is one of the main reasons I became a professional violinist and teacher,” said violinist Kaylee Erlewein. “However, in recent years, decisions by the TC Phil management, discussions with my colleagues, and years of service on the Players’ Committee led me to believe that the musicians needed a stronger voice. The necessary next step was to join with the American Federation of Musicians. We look forward to working with AFM Local 56 to make the orchestra stronger than ever, for many years to come.”
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