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From Gaza to the Symphony: Pianist’s Political Stance Hits Sour Note in the Arts World

A pianist’s decision to play a work dedicated to journalists killed in Gaza set off a firestorm of debate in Australia and lasting consequences for some people.
From Gaza to the Symphony: Pianist’s Political Stance Hits Sour Note in the Arts World
A supplied image obtained on Aug. 15, 2024, shows pianist Jayson Gillham, who has played with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. AAP Image/Supplied by Rémi Chauvin, via Emblem Artists
Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
9/2/2024|Updated: 9/3/2024
0:00
News Analysis

A deviation from the advertised programme during a classical concert would usually produce, at most, a few disgruntled mumbles from the audience.

Rex Widerstrom
Rex Widerstrom
Author
Rex Widerstrom is a New Zealand-based reporter with over 40 years of experience in media, including radio and print. He is currently a presenter for Hutt Radio.
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Related Topics
Palestine
freedom of speech
Gaza
Israel-Hamas war
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra
Jayson Gillham
Peter Garrett
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