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Boston Symphony Premieres Glass's "Lincoln" Amid Controversy

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Boston Symphony Orchestra will premiere Philip Glass's Symphony No. 15, "Lincoln," on July 5 at Tanglewood, conducted by Karen Kamensek, with baritone Zachary James and Lincoln texts like the Lyceum Address and Emancipation Proclamation.
The Kennedy Center canceled the original premiere, citing a conflict between its values and the symphony's message.
Aaron Copland's Lincoln Portrait and selections from John Williams' Lincoln score are included, aligning with America's 250th anniversary.

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Story summary

The Boston Symphony Orchestra will premiere Philip Glass's Symphony No. 15, "Lincoln," on July 5 at Tanglewood, conducted by Karen Kamensek, with baritone Zachary James and Lincoln texts like the Lyceum Address and Emancipation Proclamation.
The Kennedy Center canceled the original premiere, citing a conflict between its values and the symphony's message.
Aaron Copland's Lincoln Portrait and selections from John Williams' Lincoln score are included, aligning with America's 250th anniversary.