MSO must take full responsibility for its over-reach

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra must take full responsibility and rectify a crisis of its own making when it stood down pianist Jayson Gillham for comments about the human toll of the war in Gaza, says the union representing the company’s musicians.

The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance says the sanctioning of Mr Gillham is a major over-reach and compromises artistic freedom of expression.

“MEAA members stand in solidarity with Jayson, who has been treated appallingly by the management of the MSO,” said MEAA Chief Executive Erin Madeley.

“On Sunday, he played a short, reflective instrumental piece that has been composed in response to the deaths of more than 100 journalists since the war began last October.

“He introduced the piece by putting it in context and explaining the horrific toll the war has had on press freedom and journalism in Gaza.

“The response by the management of MSO has been disproportionate and is offensive to the principles of artistic expression. It has caused enormous hurt and distress to Jayson and is disrespectful to his fellow musicians – and to our journalist colleagues in Gaza.

“As the union for all media and creative workers – including musicians and journalists – MEAA supports the freedom to express opinions without fear of silencing, censorship or retribution.

“The careers of creative workers should not be damaged or restricted because of opinions they have expressed through their art.

“We take all allegations of censorship and harassment extremely seriously and will support our members in their freedom to express political opinions without retribution.

“Musicians and audiences deserve much better from one of Australia’s premier arts companies.”