In Canada, an orchestra lays off all musicians and staff

The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra has suspended all 67 musicians, 30 admin staff, and 14 Sistema teachers from March 29.

‘The orchestra business is a very fragile one at the best of times,’ said WSO executive director Trudy Schroeder. ‘What is certain, though, is our priority to do whatever is needed to plan for a positive return to work for musicians and staff as soon as possible. These are our colleagues and friends. Our instinct is protect each other, especially at a time like this.’

To my friends in the orchestra – to James, Trudy and the rest – we prays this passes soon.

See also: The Met lays off orchestra and chorus

Trudy writes:

Toughest day at work ever. 67 musicians, 30 admin staff, 15 Sistema Winnipeg teachers. Heart breaking! This virus could not have hit at a worse time in our cash flow for the year…then suddenly no public concerts, no fundraisers, no international travel for guest artists….. but amazing to hear everybody come together with ideas and encouragement.

Just wish that those putting together emergency economic stimulus packages for the corporate sector had included a way for cultural groups to access these resources as well. This is more than 100 people to be out of work on March 29. It would be better for everyone if we could keep them employed during this strange and awful time. My job is to get them back to work as soon as possible. Anyone have ideas for me?