The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and its musicians have reached a deal to end their labor dispute, saving the upcoming season.

Authorities say the musicians accepted a new collective bargaining agreement this week, clearing the way for the 2012-2013 season to open Oct. 4.

The deal will cost the musicians $5.2 million in compensation over two years, change their pay structure, and cut their numbers significantly.

Symphony President Stanley Romanstein and some other top ASO executives will forfeit 6 percent of their collective salaries under terms of the agreement.

Before the deal was reached, the symphony stopped paying its musicians and the Woodruff Arts Center locked them out of the symphony facilities.

Tags: Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, lockout, labor dispute, ASO