Philip Glass Withdraws Lincoln Symphony Premiere from Kennedy Center
Renowned composer Philip Glass announced the withdrawal of his symphony, “Lincoln,” from the Kennedy Center, citing a stark misalignment with the institution’s current values under President Donald Trump. In a statement shared on social media, Glass expressed his concerns regarding the direction of the arts center, stating, “The values of the Kennedy Center today are in direct conflict with the message of the Symphony.” This decision follows an increasing trend of artists distancing themselves from the venue, particularly since its rebranding under Trump.
Background on Glass’s Composition
Symphony No. 15, originally set to premiere in June, is deeply connected to the legacy of Abraham Lincoln. The symphony features a variety of sections, including:
- Lyceum Address
- Autobiography
- Slavery
- The End of the War
- Farewell Address
This eight-part orchestral piece spans approximately 40 minutes and incorporates text from Lincoln himself, emphasizing themes of unity and moral integrity.
Impact of Trump’s Leadership
Philip Glass’s decision signifies a broader dissent among artists against the policies of the Kennedy Center under Trump’s leadership. Since his reforms included placing his name prominently on the venue, numerous performers have canceled slated engagements. Notable artists who have withdrawn include:
- Issa Rae
- Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton”
- Renee Fleming
- Stephen Schwartz
- Washington National Opera
- Béla Fleck
- Jazz ensemble The Cookers
- Billy Hart
- Doug Varone and Dancers
- Chuck Redd
- Singer Kristy Lee
Glass’s Legacy and Contributions
At 88 years old, Philip Glass has made significant contributions to the arts. He has received a Kennedy Center Honor in 2018 and has an extensive catalog that includes:
- 14 symphonies
- 15 operas
- 12 concertos
- Numerous film scores
His work in film has earned him three Academy Award nominations for Best Original Score for notable films, including:
- “Kundun” (1997)
- “The Hours” (2002)
- “Notes on a Scandal” (2006)
Glass’s operatic repertoire features acclaimed works such as “Einstein on the Beach” and “Satyagraha,” further establishing his position as a pivotal figure in contemporary classical music.
As artists continue to voice their concerns, Philip Glass stands out as a prominent advocate for artistic integrity, reflecting the complex relationship between art, politics, and societal values.
