The BSO’s Principal Flutist Says She is Paid Far Less Than The Man Who is The Principal Oboist – The Boston Globe

Gordon Law Group

Gordon Law Group featured in The Boston Globe in support of BSO Flutist and first suit under Massachusetts Equal Pay Act (View Article)

In a bold and significant move, the BSO’s principal flutist says she is paid far less than the male musician who holds the position of principal oboist, despite both performing comparable roles within the orchestra. This public statement, made in an exclusive interview with The Boston Globe, has brought to light the issue of wage disparity in the world of classical music, prompting discussions about gender pay equality in the arts.

The Case: Challenging Pay Disparity in the Boston Symphony Orchestra

The principal flutist’s claim of unequal pay against the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) has gained considerable attention, as she asserts that despite having the same seniority, performing the same level of work, and contributing equally to the orchestra’s success, she is paid significantly less than her male counterpart. Her case is rooted in the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act, which mandates that employees performing comparable work be compensated equally, regardless of gender.

In the interview, the principal flutist shared that the BSO’s principal oboist, a male musician in the same position, receives a far higher salary, despite the fact that their responsibilities and qualifications are nearly identical. The BSO’s principal flutist says this disparity reflects a systemic issue of pay inequality that persists in even the most prestigious orchestras. This legal dispute seeks to address the long-standing issue of gender-based wage disparities in classical music, an industry where such inequalities have often been overlooked.


The BSO’s principal flutist says she is facing unfair pay highlights a larger issue that has affected countless women in the arts and entertainment industries: gender-based wage inequality. This legal challenge not only has the potential to affect the Boston Symphony Orchestra but could also influence the entire classical music community, along with other industries where gender pay gaps persist.

Read What Judges Say About Us

extraordinary skill displayed in this litigation

Judge Daniel O'Shea

impressive scholarly expertise

Judge Joseph F. Leighton, Jr.

extensive experience and success in the realm of class action lawsuits

Judge Robert C. Cosgrove
Best Lawyers Badge
Best Lawyers Badge
Super Lawyers top 100 Badge
2021 Boston Top Lawyers Badge
Lead Counsel Rated Attorney Badge

Where to Find Us

Boston Office
585 Boylston St

Boston, MA 02116

Contact Us