ASO to vote on musician contract | News

ATLANTA, Ga. -- 11Alive has learned the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra musicians will vote Wednesday on a new offer that would end their month long lockout.

Sources told Jeff Hullinger that the musicians held a contentious meeting Tuesday lasting 5 hours. The gathering was emotional with fiesty words and tears from those in attendance. The offer is unpopular. 

While musicians do not like this offer, it may be their best bet. They have been without paychecks, health benefits, and access to the Woodruff Arts Center for a month. 

Mayor Kasim Reed told Hullinger Tuesday night happy or not -- if the lockout is ending, it was the right move.

"I am hearing they're going to get a deal. I want to commend both sides in terms of representatives of the ASO, Virginia Hepner the new leader of the Woodruff..I think they are very close to a deal..I am hopefully optimistic."

The ASO is closing in on their 68th season.

The lockout began August 25. The two sides have been battling over a two year contract totaling $1.2 million dollars.