Full Breakdown
Philip Glass Withdraws Symphony from Kennedy Center in Protest
1/30/2026, 6:18:14 AM
Symphony No. 15 Cancellation
Renowned composer Philip Glass has officially withdrawn his upcoming Symphony No. 15, titled "Lincoln," from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The premiere was scheduled for June 12 and 13, 2025, with the National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of conductor Karen Kamensek. Glass's decision stems from a perceived conflict between the values of the Kennedy Center's current leadership and the message of his symphony, which honors former President Abraham Lincoln. In his statement, Glass expressed, “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. Therefore, I feel an obligation to withdraw this Symphony premiere from the Kennedy Center under its current leadership.”
Background on the Kennedy Center's Leadership Changes
The backdrop to Glass's decision includes significant changes at the Kennedy Center following the re-election of President Donald Trump. In February 2025, Trump dismissed the previous board of trustees and appointed his own, subsequently electing himself as chair. The board later voted to rename the facility to include Trump's name alongside Kennedy's, a move that has drawn widespread criticism. This shift in leadership has prompted a wave of artists to distance themselves from the institution, including notable figures such as opera singer Renée Fleming, folk artist Kristy Lee, and the musical "Hamilton."
Official Responses
In response to Glass's cancellation, Roma Daravi, vice president of public relations at the Kennedy Center, stated, “We have no place for politics in the arts, and those calling for boycotts based on politics are making the wrong decision.” Jean Davidson, executive director of the National Symphony Orchestra, expressed surprise at Glass's decision, noting that they learned of it simultaneously with the press. The National Symphony Orchestra remains committed to performing the piece, despite the withdrawal.
Criticism and Opposition
Glass's withdrawal is part of a broader trend of dissent among artists against the Kennedy Center's current direction. Critics argue that the institution's alignment with Trump's administration undermines the integrity of the arts. The decision to include Trump's name in the center's branding has been particularly contentious, leading to calls for boycotts and resignations from various artists. The Washington National Opera recently ended a 54-year partnership with the Kennedy Center, further illustrating the growing discontent within the artistic community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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, Composer
- “We have no place for politics in the arts, and those calling for boycotts based on politics are making the wrong decision.” — Roma Daravi, Vice President of Public Relations, Kennedy Center
- “We have great admiration for Philip Glass and were surprised to learn about his decision at the same time as the press,” — Jean Davidson, Executive Director, National Symphony Orchestra
Philip Glass's decision to withdraw his symphony underscores the ongoing tensions between art and politics, reflecting a significant moment in the cultural landscape as artists navigate their relationships with institutions amid changing political climates.
