Renowned composer Philip Glass has announced the withdrawal of his latest symphony, titled “Lincoln,” from its scheduled premiere at the Kennedy Center. This decision marks a significant cultural protest against the recent administrative changes at the Center following its takeover by President Donald Trump.

In a poignant statement released via social media, Glass expressed that the ethos underpinning the Kennedy Center under its new leadership starkly contrasts with the values embodied by his "Symphony No. 15," a musical homage to Abraham Lincoln. "The values of the Kennedy Center today are in direct conflict with the message of the Symphony," Glass stated. "Therefore, I feel an obligation to withdraw this Symphony premiere from the Kennedy Center under its current leadership."

Philip Glass's decision adds to a growing wave of artists and performers who have opted to cancel their engagements at the Kennedy Center. Notable withdrawals include Grammy award-winning soprano Renee Fleming and other artists such as banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck and singer Sonia De Los Santos. Esteemed groups like the Martha Graham Dance Company and the Seattle Children’s Theater have also scrapped their planned performances.

Since reclaiming the White House, Trump has prioritized reshaping the Kennedy Center. He assumed the role of chair in February 2025 after removing several board members, and installed Richard Grenell, a close ally, as the interim executive director. Further stirring controversy, the board recently voted to incorporate the president's name into the building, prompting legal action from Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), who is an ex officio board member.

Trump's hands-on approach to the Center's refurbishment has extended to minutiae such as the design of the theater's armrests. However, these changes have sparked significant backlash from the artistic community, reflecting broader concerns about the independence and cultural integrity of this prestigious institution.

At 88, Glass remains a towering figure in American music, celebrated for his minimalist compositions and influential film scores, including those for "The Hours" and "The Truman Show." The Kennedy Center has not yet responded to the cancellation of what would have been a landmark premiere.

This incident underscores the ongoing tension between the Trump administration's influence over national cultural institutions and the creative community's efforts to preserve artistic freedom and integrity.