Full Breakdown
Philip Glass Withdraws Symphony from Kennedy Center Amid Political Controversy
1/27/2026, 7:48:36 PM
Symphony Cancellation and Reasons
Renowned composer Philip Glass has announced the withdrawal of his Symphony No. 15, titled "Lincoln," from its scheduled world premiere at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The symphony, inspired by Abraham Lincoln's 1838 Lyceum Address, was set to be performed by the National Symphony Orchestra on June 12 and 13, 2026. In a statement shared on social media, Glass expressed that the values of the Kennedy Center under its current leadership are in "direct conflict" with the message of his composition. He stated, "Therefore, I feel an obligation to withdraw this Symphony premiere from the Kennedy Center under its current leadership."
Background and Context
The decision comes amid significant turmoil at the Kennedy Center following President Donald Trump's takeover as chair in early 2025. Trump has implemented a series of controversial changes, including renaming the institution to the "Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts." This rebranding has drawn criticism from various artists and lawmakers, including Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), who has filed a lawsuit against the board for the name change, arguing it violates laws prohibiting alterations to the memorial dedicated to John F. Kennedy.
Impact on the Arts Community
Glass's withdrawal is part of a broader trend of artists canceling performances at the Kennedy Center due to its political climate. Notable figures such as soprano Renée Fleming, composer Stephen Schwartz, and the cast of "Hamilton" have also pulled out of engagements. The Washington National Opera has ended its long-standing relationship with the center, citing financial reasons rather than political ones. The Kennedy Center has reportedly experienced a decline in attendance, with some performances seeing a drop of approximately 50% compared to previous seasons.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to Glass's cancellation, a spokesperson for the Kennedy Center, Roma Daravi, stated, "We have no place for politics in the arts, and those calling for boycotts based on politics are making the wrong decision." Daravi emphasized that the center has not canceled any shows and criticized what she described as pressure from "leftist activists" on artists to withdraw.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the Kennedy Center's current leadership argue that the politicization of the arts alienates performers and undermines the institution's long-standing reputation as a nonpartisan cultural venue. The backlash against Trump's leadership has raised concerns about the influence of politics on artistic expression and the future of the arts community in Washington, D.C.
What's Next
As the National Symphony Orchestra navigates these challenges, its music director, Gianandrea Noseda, remains committed to fostering talent and engaging audiences. The orchestra's leadership has expressed determination to revitalize its connection with the community, emphasizing the importance of music as a unifying force amid the current sociopolitical climate.
Verbatim Quotes
- “After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to withdraw my Symphony No. 15 ‘Lincoln’ from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts,” — Philip Glass
- “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.” — Philip Glass
- “We have no place for politics in the arts, and those calling for boycotts based on politics are making the wrong decision.” — Roma Daravi, Kennedy Center Spokesperson
Philip Glass's decision to withdraw his symphony underscores the ongoing tensions between artistic integrity and political influence, raising critical questions about the future of cultural institutions in a politically charged environment.
