San Francisco Opera Musicians End Strike After Tentative Four‑Year Deal

The deal gives musicians multi‑year pay stability by allowing the company to pursue structural changes to control costs.

Overview

Musicians with the San Francisco Opera began a strike just before opening night on Sept. 12, which led to the cancellation of Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra and a free Opera in the Park concert.
Both sides announced a tentative four‑year contract on Thursday that covers Aug. 1, 2026 through July 31, 2030 and must be ratified by the musicians.
The Opera has scheduled the 2026–27 season to start Sept. 22 but final rehearsals and logistical steps are required before canceled performances can be fully restored.
Ticketholders for the canceled Simon Boccanegra and Mary, Queen of Scots dates may apply ticket value to other shows, donate the value, or request a refund through sfopera.com/updates or the box office.
City officials led by Mayor Daniel Lurie and arts staff brokered talks, and leaders on both sides said the pact aims to balance musician stability with the company’s need to address long‑term fiscal pressures.