Posted by Tom C. on October 24, 2002 at 13:58:50:
I friend of mine who plays in a symphony in a midium size city (500,000 give or take) was up in arms the other day after the conductor's salary became public knowledge. Seems his pay is approaching $200K. Meanwhile, the musicians earn about $3,000 a year. I understand there to be more than a few angry players.
I certainly understand that the conductor's job goes well beyond waving his baton. There's all that fund raising to begin with. This is his only job. And I understand the years of serious study it takes to be a good conductor. And, frankly, I don't fault anyone for bargaining for all he can get.
I'm wondering if this kind of compensation is common. Is the gap always this huge? I know little of the orchestral life personally, so please educate me.