BUFFALO, NY - The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra Society and its musicians will continue to make beautiful music together after the announcement the two sides have signed a new five-year deal.

Executive Director of the BPO Daniel Hart said Wednesday the contract, the first ever covering five years, includes the 2011-12 through 2015-16 seasons.

"This is very positive news and a great outcome for all concerned," said Hart. "We have challenges ahead but the Board, musicians and staff are on the same page and we will continue to work side by side to advance this orchestra and our community. 

"The five-year time frame gives us the ability to know what our costs will be going forward and a great opportunity to focus our efforts on audience development and fundraising."

Highlights of the contract include the restoration of paid vacations given up by the musicians two years ago as the result of the economic downturn and inflationary increases in weekly pay.