While numerous American orchestras operate salary cuts, Dallas Symphony Orchestra and its musicians have agreed to a new two-year contract which foresees higher salaries. Musicians will receive a base salary increase of 1 percent in 2013 and a 2 percent increase in 2014. If goals for donor pledges and major lead gifts are realized, musicians will receive an additional 2 percent increase in 2015 retroactive to the beginning of the 2014-15 season. Each musician will also receive a one-time $750 bonus in 2013. Under the last contract, musicians received a 1 percent raise in 2012-13, after six years of no increases. The Dallas Symphony has gained recognition since the Dutch conductor Jaap van Zweden became Music Director.
