The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has announced that it will undergo an independent review of its policies following the controversial decision to cancel a performance by pianist Jayson Gillham. Gillham had dedicated a piece of music to journalists killed in Gaza and made remarks criticizing Israel during a performance. The orchestra cited remarks made without their approval as the reason for cancelling Gillham’s upcoming event.
The orchestra’s musicians expressed a vote of no confidence in the senior management’s decision, citing unresolved concerns and a decline in workplace culture. The board has announced plans to conduct an independent external review into their policies, procedures, and decision-making processes leading up to the cancellation. They stated that the review aims to ensure that their policies align with best practices and are fit for purpose in the contemporary environment.
Following the cancellation of Gillham’s performance, Australian jazz funk band the Cat Empire announced the postponement of their scheduled show at Hamer Hall in support of the MSO musicians. The band expressed hope for a resolution to the situation and a return to celebrating music in a free and inclusive way. The musicians of the MSO have called for a full and impartial investigation into the cancellation and the general standards of leadership within the organization.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com