The Associated Press

LOUISVILLE - The Louisville Orchestra returned to work Thursday after management agreed to support the musicians' search for work until it can pay all back wages.

The orchestra canceled a Thursday morning concert after announcing it would pay musicians 30 percent of their paychecks that were due April 30 after receiving an infusion of contributions.

Tim King, the orchestra's executive director, said that about $52,000 of a $170,000 payroll will be distributed to musicians, conductors and administrative staff.

"We're relieved to be getting some partial payment," said Tim Zavadil, a spokesman for the orchestra musicians. "But we have to keep in mind that this doesn't solve the big problem, which is to make sure the contract is fulfilled."

Zavadil said management granted leaves for musicians who were offered short-term work that could help them pay their bills until the orchestra is able to pay its payroll.

The orchestra will perform tonight in Corydon, Ind., and Saturday in Louisville.

King could not say when the balance might be paid, or how next Thursday's payroll could be met. As of Tuesday, there was a little more than $3,000 in the orchestra's bank accounts. Asked whether the orchestra could avoid filing for bankruptcy protection, board President Phil McHugh would say only that the board "would have to consider all alternatives."