Facing an uncertain future and a dearth of information, the Philly Pops musicians said Tuesday they are prepared to go on strike unless Pops owners —“There is no reason to stonewall these workers’ needs,” said Ellen Trainer, president of the American Federation of Musicians, Local 77, the Pops musicians’ union conference Tuesday. “There’s no reason to send them home for the holiday with no idea how their families are supposed to budget for the new year.
Since then, the union members have heard inconclusive reports about whether the Pops will continue past the current season, if the musicians’ positions will be protected, and answers to questions about the organization’s finances. “We just need them to provide accurate information in a useful, legal format and to negotiate in good faith,” Trainer said. “No more games while people’s livelihoods are at stake,” referring to an alleged federal labor law violation the union has filed against the owners.