Philip Glass withdraws from Kennedy Center show in protest of Donald Trump

Phillip Glass has withdrawn from a performance of his latest symphony at the Kennedy Centre in protest of the Washington D.C.-based arts centre's association with US President Donald Trump.

The US composer, known for his use of synthesisers and his wide-spanning influence on electronic music, was due to host the world premiere of Symphony No 15 ‘Lincoln’ across June 12 - 13. 

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In a statement shared via X last Tuesday (January 27), Glass wrote: “After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to withdraw my Symphony No 15 ‘Lincoln’ from the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts." 

Glass added that the current values of the Kennedy Center stand "in direct conflict" with the piece, which he describes as a "portrait" of Abraham Lincoln. “Therefore, I feel an obligation to withdraw this symphony premiere from the Kennedy Center under its current leadership,” Glass continued.

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There's been a string of cancellations from performers at the venue since last December, when Trump changed the name of the John F. Kennedy Center to the Trump-Kennedy Center. Jazz group The Cookers and drummer and vibraphonist Chuck Redd are amongst those who have pulled performances.

On Monday (February 2), Trump announced that the centre will be closing for two years for renovations from July 4, "in honour of the 250th Anniversary of our Country".

"I have determined that The Trump-Kennedy Center, if temporarily closed for construction, revitalisation, and complete rebuilding, can be, without question, the finest performing arts facility of its kind, anywhere in the world," he wrote.

Megan Townsend is Mixmag's Deputy Editor, follow her on X