Fiscal Turnaround In Detroit

The Detroit Symphony has rebounded from three straight years of deficits and posted a small surplus for the 2003-04 season. “Some factors leading to the positive financial news are unique and unlikely to be repeated. The October 2003 opening of the orchestra’s new home, the Max M. Fisher Music Center, was a once-in-a-lifetime event; the gala that marked the opening netted $1 million.” The persistent deficits led the DSO to replace its executive director last winter, and the orchestra’s musicians agreed to reopen their contract early and make significant concessions to stem the tide of red ink.