Wednesday, January 28, 2026-Renowned American composer Philip Glass has abruptly withdrawn the scheduled world premiere of his Symphony No. 15, “Lincoln,” from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, citing a conflict between the institution’s current leadership and the values embodied in his work.
The June performance was set to feature the National Symphony Orchestra and serve as a highlight of the center’s programming. Glass stated that the symphony’s focus on Abraham Lincoln and themes of democracy and unity stands in direct conflict with the center’s direction under its current leadership.
Glass’s decision comes amid a growing wave of high‑profile cancellations at the Kennedy Center following recent changes to its governance, including the installation of a new board and leadership structure. The composer, now in his late 80s and a former Kennedy Center Honors recipient, emphasized that he feels a strong obligation to align the presentation of his work with institutions that share its message. Other major artists and productions have also pulled planned performances in recent weeks amid similar concerns.
The Kennedy Center, facing public debate over its identity and role in the arts, responded by saying that politics have no place in artistic programming, even as critics argue the organization’s recent shifts have politicized its mission. Glass’s withdrawal marks one of the most high‑profile protests against the changes, spotlighting broader tensions in the cultural world over leadership, values, and the future of major performance venues.
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