Philip Glass Cancels World Premiere of Lincoln Symphony at Kennedy Center
In a significant development for the arts community, celebrated composer Philip Glass has withdrawn the scheduled world premiere of his Symphony No. 15, "Lincoln" from the Kennedy Center. This decision marks the latest in a series of cancellations following President Donald Trump's replacement of the institution's previous leadership.
Artistic Statement and Political Conflict
Glass, who will turn 89 this Saturday, issued a statement through his publicist on Tuesday, explaining his rationale. "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," he stated. "Therefore, I feel an obligation to withdraw this Symphony premiere from the Kennedy Center under its current leadership."
The symphony was set to be conducted by Grammy-winning Karen Kamensek with performances planned for June 12 and June 13. Glass, a 2018 Kennedy Center honoree and recipient of the National Medal of Arts from former President Barack Obama in 2015, emphasized the disconnect between Lincoln's ideals and the center's current direction.
Kennedy Center's Response and Broader Boycott
Roma Daravi, the Kennedy Center's vice president of public relations, countered in a statement, asserting, "We have no place for politics in the arts, and those calling for boycotts based on politics are making the wrong decision." This exchange highlights the deepening rift between artists and the institution.
Glass's withdrawal joins a growing list of artists, including Renee Fleming and Bela Fleck, who have canceled planned performances at the Kennedy Center. The center has become a focal point in Trump's campaign against what he terms "woke" culture, with his handpicked board of trustees announcing plans to rename it the Trump Kennedy Center.
Historical Inspiration and Contemporary Implications
The "Lincoln" symphony draws inspiration from Lincoln's 1838 "Lyceum Address," delivered when he was a 28-year-old Illinois state representative. In this speech, Lincoln warned against mob violence and its threats to democracy and the rule of law, themes that resonate strongly in today's political climate.
Despite scholars noting that renaming the Kennedy Center requires congressional approval, Trump's name has already been added to the building's facade. This move, coupled with the artistic boycotts, underscores the ongoing tensions between cultural preservation and political influence in the arts sector.
