The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has decided to take action in response to the recent cancellation of pianist Jayson Gillham's performance.
They appointed Peter Garrett to lead an external review of the orchestra's culture while Managing Director Sophie Galaise will step down.
The decision came following the uproar over Gillham's canceled concert.
🇦🇺 🇮🇱 🇵🇸 Le pianiste Jayson Gillham interdit de se produire avec l’orchestre de Melbourne pour son soutien à Gaza !
— Pascal Laurent (@Pascal_Laurent_) August 15, 2024
Décidément le monde occidental est contrôlé totalement par le lobby sioniste même la musique classique. Cette interdiction de jouer pour un des pianistes les plus… pic.twitter.com/Q3X8uT00YL
Garrett, known for his influence in both music and Australian politics, will oversee the investigation, with support from KPMG Australia.
The assessment will focus on the MSO's policies, particularly freedom of speech and artistic expression during performances, ensuring they align with the orchestra's important role in the community.
MSO said in a statement, "We are determined to shape our future, and that work starts today. We want to ensure protocols are in place that fit the purpose of an organization like the MSO and the role it plays within the community."
Restoring Public Trust Through New Leadership
The Board also expressed confidence that Garrett's leadership in this evaluation will help rebuild public trust and maintain the orchestra's reputation for delivering outstanding cultural experiences worldwide.
The Board selected Richard Wigley, an experienced orchestral leader from New Zealand, as the strategic advisor.
Wigley will draw on his wide experience from former roles at the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ulster Orchestra.
The Board thanked Galaise for her eight years of dedicated service, while also praising Wigley's qualifications, noting that his "deep experience in music and leadership roles positions him perfectly for this role."
In early August, MSO members voted to express their lack of confidence in the leadership, calling for the removal of Galaise and Chief Operating Officer Guy Ross after the cancellation of Gillham's performances.
The MSO Board promised to share important insights from the ongoing review with the public once all details are finalized.
