Why FTO?
Steady Clients with Contracts of Continued Employment:
FTO has your Non-Profit covered - We do it all “right”.
- General Liability, Workers' Compensation, Unemployment, Withholding, and FICA
- As an Employer, FTO assures all musicians adhere to a code of responsibilities typical to all professional orchestras.
- Extensive database of local musicians and, if necessary, FTO has decades of collaborations with the highest quality musicians from all over the USA.
- Regarding artistic control, your organization will be offered direct collaboration. In most cases, due to excellent music programs and training orchestras here, more and more highly trained and capable musicians live locally. Anyone directly requested will be a priority - other possibilities (auditions) will be offered and can be trusted as being excellent choices. FTO believes a mix of experience and raw talent is the best orchestra.
- FTO has decades of experience in dealing with the stage set up at all local venues (Arsht, Broward Center, Kravis, Bailey Hall, etc.). FTO has excellent relationships with Stage Managers to crew members.
The article 11 Myths About Florida Workers’ Compensation Insurance (That You Probably Believe) has very important information specific to Florida's law regarding Worker's Compensation.
Musicians:
- Numerous IRS rulings state that symphonic orchestral musicians are employees, not independent contractors. Working for FTO means you automatically get paid ½ of FICA (7.65%) of your income that you do not have to pay at the end of each year. Receiving a W-2 (instead of a 1099) is better for qualifying for loans and improving credit.
- When offered employment from FTO you will know upfront what the job pays. FTO pays bi-monthly and will notify you when you will be paid for each job.
- FTO will offer tenure for core orchestra positions with yearly contracts.
- For on-going contracts, FTO will encourage the creation of an orchestra committee. FTO’s contract with clients will include consultation with any such committee in any hiring or firing of personnel.
- If you have a question about a gig - you WILL receive a prompt reply.