Most full-time staff of the Jacksonville Symphony will take up to a 10% pay cut beginning in July.
The move is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the orchestra to cancel 30 concerts in its 2019-20 season, including the planned tour to Washington, D.C., for SHIFT: A Festival of American Orchestras.
“This was obviously a very difficult decision to make,” said Steven Libman, president and CEO, in a news release.
“Due to a decreased operating budget, temporary furloughs are a necessary step. We are still looking forward to having our opening night concert on September 26 when we can safely perform for the Jacksonville community again.”
The pandemic’s impact will carry into the 2020-21 season, leading to the temporary staff salary reduction.
The original 2020-21 operating budget would have been at $12.1 million. Because of cancellations, the budget has been reduced to $9.6 million, a 20% decrease, and the lowest in six seasons. Payroll reductions represent a savings of $1.4 million.
With the necessity for social distancing in Jacoby Symphony Hall, the capacity will decrease from 1,796 to 622 seats, resulting in a projected loss of $1.5 million in ticket sales.
Patrons with questions regarding season tickets may call (904) 354-5547.