The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is set to undergo an independent review of its policies after a controversial decision to cancel a performance by pianist Jayson Gillham, who made comments about the killing of journalists in Gaza. The decision to cancel his performance led to a vote of no confidence from the orchestra’s musicians towards senior management, citing ongoing concerns and a decline in workplace culture.
Gillham had dedicated a piece of music to slain journalists in Gaza during a concert, calling their killing a war crime. The orchestra later admitted to making an error in cancelling his performance and is seeking to reschedule it after engaging with Gillham’s management.
The MSO board has announced an external review of its policies, procedures, and decision-making processes, in response to the controversy surrounding Gillham’s cancelled performance. The musicians have called for a full and impartial investigation into the cancellation and the general standards of leadership within the organization.
Support for the musicians’ stance has come from Australian jazz funk band, The Cat Empire, who postponed their show at the same venue in solidarity with the MSO’s musicians. The band expressed hope for a resolution that aligns with their beliefs in celebrating music in a free and inclusive manner. The MSO aims to ensure its policies and processes are in line with best practices and its organizational values, seeking to rebuild trust and maintain its reputation within the community.
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