Evgeny Kissin has expressed his support for Andris Nelsons following the decision to end his tenure at the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 2027, adding his voice to a growing international response.
In a handwritten letter addressed to the musicians of the orchestra, Kissin writes that he is “very disappointed” by the decision, describing Nelsons as “one of the most sought-after conductors in the world” and praising his “unique qualities of artistry and music-making.”
He also raises concerns about the process behind the decision, calling it “disheartening” that such a major artistic decision was made without the input of the musicians.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra described the decision as “alarmingly unilateral”, adding that it “erodes 145 years of trust between the musicians and the institution they serve.”
Cleveland Orchestra
Players from the Cleveland Orchestra expressed solidarity with their Boston colleagues and called on leadership “to reconsider their recent decision.”
Toronto Symphony Orchestra
Musicians of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra also expressed solidarity with their Boston colleagues, stating that they “stand in solidarity with our musician colleagues at the Boston Symphony Orchestra.” They added that they “understand the difficulties they face with the lack of involvement in recent decisions regarding their future,” offering their “support and encouragement” during what they described as a “challenging time.”
Oregon Symphony
Musicians of the Oregon Symphony emphasised that orchestral work is “a collective endeavour” that cannot thrive “under unilateral action… without musician buy-in.”
Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra
A statement from the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra warned that decisions taken “without transparent justification” risk undermining “the integrity and cohesion essential to artistic excellence.”
This adds to a growing number of messages of support for Nelsons, including statements from Simon Rattle and musicians of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra and the Berlin Philharmonic.
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