The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service provides alternative dispute resolution assistance to important industries and companies experiencing difficulties including labor disputes.  Now, the Philadelphia Orchestra has joined the list of institutions benefitting from the service's experience. 

The management and the musicians who form the labor force for the orchestra have not been able to agree on a new contract, but the two sides are continuing to talk.  In this, they have the assistance of George H. Cohen, who serves as the director of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.  Cohen has asked both sides to submit proposals for his consideration; he will use the solicited proposals to help guide the talks in a productive direction.

Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service Not Only Option

In addition to working with mediation attorneys to help forge a new contract, a challenge at a time when the orchestra may be facing bankruptcy, the two sides have agreed to a temporary contract extension.  "One hopes this gives both sides the time to find a solution," said John Koen, who plays the cello in the orchestra.  Koen serves chairman of the members' committee in the labor dispute.

The concert season is due to begin in October, but some still worry that a musicians' strike could cause the cancellation of the 2011-2012 season.  As contract mediation talks continue, music lovers in the Philadelphia area have high hopes that the season will proceed as usual.