NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - The Nashville Symphony board of directors decided on Friday to suspend programs through next July and furlough its music director and other full-time staff and dozens of musicians due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The symphony has had to cancel or reschedule more than 65 concerts and events since March and projects losses from the pandemic to reach $8 million, nearly 30% of its annual income, it said in a news release.
The board voted to furlough 79 musicians and 49 full-time staff members, including Music Director Giancarlo Guerrero, effective July 1.
“First and foremost, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our patrons, along with our musicians, staff and volunteers, board Chairman Mark Peacock said in the release. “That means doing everything we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19. With operational costs totaling $2.3 million every month, we also face an enormous financial risk due to the continuing uncertainty caused by this pandemic.”
Nashville Musicians Association President Dave Pomeroy said the local wants to help work out details of the orchestra’s safe return when the time comes.
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