Philip Glass withdraws world premiere of his Lincoln symphony from Kennedy Center

A new symphony by acclaimed composer Philip Glass will not debut as planned at the John F Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. The 88-year-old composer withdrew Symphony No. 15, titled “Lincoln,” citing a conflict between the values of the Kennedy Center’s current leadership and the symphony’s message.

A Portrait of Lincoln Withdrawn

Glass, who received Kennedy Center Honors in 2018, stated his decision was “thoughtful” and driven by an obligation to the work itself. Symphony No. 15 is specifically a musical portrait of Abraham Lincoln. The premiere was scheduled for June 12 and 13.

Did You Know? The Kennedy Center was renamed the “Trump-Kennedy Center” in December.

Broader Turmoil at the Kennedy Center

This withdrawal occurs amidst significant changes at the Kennedy Center initiated after a leadership overhaul by the current administration in early 2025. This overhaul included the installation of a new board of trustees and subsequent alterations to the institution’s name and overall mission.

The decision follows a series of cancellations by other musical artists who have publicly opposed policies of the current administration. Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse described the situation as a “takeover” by those seeking personal gain.

Expert Insight: The withdrawal of a work directly tied to a figure like Abraham Lincoln suggests a deep concern about the symbolic implications of allowing the premiere to proceed under the current Kennedy Center leadership. This highlights the potential for the arts to become a focal point of political and ideological disagreement.

The administration is currently facing public criticism related to the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti during a mass deportation campaign.

What Could Happen Next?

It is possible that the Kennedy Center could seek to find another venue for the premiere, or Glass could choose to debut the symphony elsewhere. The Kennedy Center may also face continued pressure from artists and the public regarding its direction. Further cancellations from performers are a possible outcome if the current administration continues its policies. The situation could also lead to increased scrutiny of the Kennedy Center’s governance and funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Philip Glass withdraw his symphony?

Philip Glass withdrew Symphony No. 15 “Lincoln” because he believes the values of the Kennedy Center under its current leadership are in direct conflict with the message of the symphony.

What changes has the current administration made at the Kennedy Center?

The administration initiated a leadership overhaul, installed a new board of trustees, changed the venue’s name to the “Trump-Kennedy Center,” and pursued changes to the institution’s mission.

Has this happened before?

The withdrawal follows a “slew of cancellations” from other musical artists who have voiced opposition to the administration’s policies.

How will artistic institutions navigate the increasing intersection of art and politics in the years to come?

Philip Glass withdraws world premiere of his Lincoln symphony from Kennedy Center | Philip Glass