Renowned composer Philip Glass has announced the cancellation of the premiere of his new symphony, “Symphony No. 15: Lincoln,” which was set to debut at the Kennedy Center in June. This decision comes amid concerns that the current leadership and values of the Kennedy Center no longer align with the message conveyed in his work, particularly in the context of recent political changes initiated during Donald Trump’s presidency.
In a letter detailing his reasoning, Glass characterized the symphony as a portrayal of Abraham Lincoln and explicitly stated that he feels an obligation to withdraw it from the Kennedy Center. He emphasized the conflict between the symphony’s values, which reflect Lincoln’s ideals, and the institution’s present ethos.
Inspired by Lincoln’s Lyceum address of 1838, Glass incorporates selected excerpts from the speech, where Lincoln warns of the dangers of mob violence and the potential threats to government and constitutional order posed by such unrest. One notable quote from the address included in the symphony highlights the lawlessness and ambition that can undermine democracy, echoing concerns relevant to contemporary political debates.
Glass’s decision to withdraw from the Kennedy Center follows a series of critical responses to changes at the venue, particularly after Trump restructured the Kennedy Center’s board and controversially renamed it. This political backdrop has led to multiple cancellations, affecting not only Glass but also other artists such as Renée Fleming and the popular musical Hamilton.
This situation underscores the intricate relationship between art and politics and how current events can influence cultural institutions and their programming. As artists like Glass take a stand, it raises important questions about the role of music and performance in social discourse and the values they represent. This moment could serve as a catalyst for further discussions about artistic integrity and institutional accountability in the arts.