Artis—Naples Secures Future With New Musician Contracts and Director’s Extended Tenure

Artis—Naples has locked in Alexander Shelley as artistic and music director through the 2029-30 season. The board greenlit a three-year deal with Naples Philharmonic musicians on Jan. 22.

Musicians will see their paychecks grow by more than 13%. Two new orchestra spots have been added, and performers can now record for dance and film projects.

The pay bumps will roll out over three years. Adding two positions means the Naples Philharmonic will have a bigger roster to work with.

“The Naples Philharmonic stands out for its extraordinary artistry and musical purpose. From the very beginning of our work together, I have been struck by the musicians' openness to exploration and their deep commitment to one another, to the music and to the audiences we serve,” Shelley said in a statement released by Artis—Naples, per GulfShore Business. “Artis—Naples has fostered a culture in which that partnership can flourish, and I am profoundly excited to continue supporting and growing our shared mission in the coming years.”

With these deals in place, Artis—Naples has a clear path through the next several years. Long-term certainty allows for strategic hiring and ambitious programming decisions.