Success is evident in comparison. Salaries, pensions, and insurance benefits have increased considerably over the last 33 years. No orchestra could hire its own attorney to participate in negotiations. Today most orchestras have bargaining representation, and may form committees, elect their own officers, and conduct their own affairs.
Many orchestras can retain legal counsel of choice.
Contract ratification rights became a part of national union bylaws in 1983. Considerable improvements have been made in probation and tenure provisions over the years. Contract protections now exist against discrimination on the basis of sex, race, age, and union activity. For years part-time attention to symphony affairs was provided by presidential assistants with other duties. Interim bulletins are issued when rapid dissemination of information to members is necessary.