Musicians say offer rejected by Minn. Orchestra management

As an independent analysis proceeds on the Minnesota Orchestra's finances, locked-out musicians say management recently rejected an offer to return to performing.

Musician negotiator Tim Zavadil said the musicians made the offer shortly before the Feb. 1 Grammy nomination celebration concert. Musicians are worried the entire season and the orchestra's reputation is at risk, he said.

"We are incredibly concerned we are losing the trust of the public and the legislature the longer this lockout goes on," Zavadil said.

Lawmakers at a public hearing Tuesday expressed their frustration with the situation to Minnesota Orchestra president Michael Henson.

A management representative later said the play-and-talk proposal from the musicians would cost an extra $3 million through the end of the season. The representative also said board representatives believe focus should be on completing the financial analysis so that negotiations can begin.