Philip Glass Pulls ‘Lincoln’ Symphony from Kennedy Center Over Value Conflicts
Renowned composer Philip Glass has decided to withdraw his Symphony No. 15, which is inspired by Abraham Lincoln, from a scheduled premiere at the Kennedy Center. This move follows his concerns about a conflict between the values of the center and the message conveyed by the symphony.
Withdrawal Due to Value Conflicts
In a letter addressed to the Kennedy Center’s board, Glass expressed his obligation to cancel the premiere, originally set for June 12 and 13. He stated, “Symphony No. 15 is a portrait of Abraham Lincoln, and the values of the Kennedy Center today are in direct conflict with the message of the Symphony.” The letter was subsequently shared with major news outlets, including CNN.
Event Background
- Symphony Title: Symphony No. 15
- Premiere Dates: June 12 and 13
- Co-Commissioners: Kennedy Center and National Symphony Orchestra
Glass’s decision comes amid a broader context of cancellations at the Kennedy Center, driven by recent changes implemented by its board.
Name Change Controversy
The Kennedy Center has undergone significant changes, most notably its recent decision to rename the facility to “The Donald J. Trump and The John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts.” This alteration has prompted various artists to reconsider their commitments to perform there.
Artists Voicing Concerns
Several notable figures have expressed dissatisfaction with the name change and its implications. Folklorist Kristy Lee recently canceled her January 14 performance, stating, “When American history starts getting treated like something you can ban, erase, rename, or rebrand for somebody else’s ego, I can’t stand on that stage and sleep right at night.”
Impacts of Leadership Changes
Following the return of former President Donald Trump to the White House, significant shifts have occurred at the Kennedy Center. These include a complete overhaul of the board of trustees and the removal of its chairman. Trump later assumed the role of chairman of the center.
Historical Context
- Glass’s Recognition: Honored by the Kennedy Center in 2018
- Trump’s Hallmark Event: He hosted the 2025 awards show
- Concerns Over ‘Wokeness’: Trump previously dismissed certain honorees he deemed too ‘woke’
As the Kennedy Center navigates these tumultuous changes, the withdrawal of Glass’s work underscores the significant impact of leadership and values on the arts community.
