The New York Philharmonic recently disclosed the earnings of its music director and CEO in the fiscal year ending on August 31, 2023. Jaap van Zweden, the music director, received slightly over $1.5 million, while Deborah Borda, the CEO, garnered just above $1.7 million in her final season. The Philharmonic’s 2022 tax return, which encompassed its inaugural season back at David Geffen Hall post a $550 million renovation, was released on Wednesday.
Ticket revenue surged to $29.76 million compared to $11.18 million in the preceding fiscal year, which saw the orchestra hosting a condensed schedule at various venues across New York City. The increase in revenue was influenced by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Philharmonic’s temporary relocation from Lincoln Center during the renovation phase. According to the orchestra’s annual report, contributions towards the construction project totaled $45.3 million in the 2022-23 period, a decrease from $68.8 million in 2021-22. Additionally, a liability of $53.7 million was noted for Geffen Hall bridge funding.
During his penultimate season as music director, Jaap van Zweden’s Bajada Productions received $1,525,711, marking an increase from $1,128,266 in the previous fiscal year. As for Borda, her earnings comprised a base compensation of $1,317,344 along with a $400,000 bonus.
In the same fiscal year, Gary Ginstling, who took on the role of executive director from November through June before assuming Borda’s position on July 1, 2023, received $117,262 in salary and a $55,000 bonus. Surprisingly, Ginstling resigned during the summer when Borda returned to oversee a transition team.
The concertmaster, Frank Huang, earned a salary of $361,713 in addition to $548,139 in bonuses, which were meant to compensate for pay reductions during the pandemic period. Several other musicians were also detailed in the report, such as principal trumpet Christopher Martin ($255,858 salary and $326,511 bonus), principal cello Carter Brey ($261,040 salary and $328,319 bonus), principal oboe Liang Wang ($253,524 salary and $326,520 bonus), and principal clarinet Anthony McGill ($394,715 salary).
