Archive · 27 Jan 2026
Philip Glass Withdraws Lincoln Symphony from Kennedy Center
Philip Glass, a famous composer, decided to cancel the first performance of his new symphony called 'Lincoln' at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. He made this decision because he believes the values of the Kennedy Center, which is now associated with President Trump, do not match the message of his symphony about Abraham Lincoln.
Many other artists have also decided to cancel their performances at the Kennedy Center for similar reasons.
Glass has a long history with the Kennedy Center, including receiving an award there in 2018.
He is known for composing music for films, operas, and Broadway shows.
Philip Glass withdrew his Symphony No. 15 'Lincoln' from the Kennedy Center due to a conflict with its values under Trump's leadership.
The symphony was scheduled to premiere on June 12-13.
Glass stated that the values of the Kennedy Center are in direct conflict with the message of his symphony about Abraham Lincoln.
Several other artists have also withdrawn their performances from the Kennedy Center in recent weeks.
Glass has a significant history with the Kennedy Center, including receiving a Kennedy Center Honors award in 2018.
- Who
- Composer Philip Glass
- What
- Withdrew his Symphony No. 15 'Lincoln' from the Kennedy Center
- When
- June 12-13 premiere dates were scheduled
- Where
- John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington D.C.
- Why
- Due to a conflict with the Kennedy Center's values under its current leadership
- Composer
- Philip Glass
- Symphony Title
- Lincoln (Symphony No. 15)
- Premiere Dates
- June 12-13
- Reason for Withdrawal
- Conflict with Kennedy Center's values under Trump's leadership
- Other Artists Withdrawn
- Renee Fleming, Issa Rae, Stephen Schwartz, Hamilton, Bela Fleck, The Cookers, Billy Hart, Doug Varone and Dancers, Chuck Redd, Kristy Lee
- Glass's Kennedy Center Honors
- 2018