Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Says Pianist Jayson Gillham "Abused His Position"

"Mr Gillham was not discriminated against because of his political views," a letter from the MSO's lawyers reads

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) has reiterated its stance in an ongoing feud concerning the pianist Jayson Gillham. In mid-August, Gillham was removed from a planned concerto appearance with the MSO, after his introductory remarks at a solo recital regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict were deemed too political by MSO management.

Both Gillham and MSO management are pursuing legal avenues following the dispute. Marque Lawyers, who are representing Gillham, wrote a letter to the MSO saying that he would not engage in further legal recourse if the orchestra agreed to a number of requests for recompense.

According to The Guardian, these requests included a public apology from the MSO, an affirmation of artists’ rights to speak freely, compensation for reputational damage caused by the initial cancelling of a concert, and guaranteed future engagements to repair the artist’s professional standing.

Gillham also asked for the MSO to commission a new piano concerto by a Palestinian composer and to donate funds to Palestine's Edward Said National Conservatory of Music.

On Thursday 29 August, the MSO responded with a letter from their own lawyers, Arnold Bloch Leibler. "[The demands] will never be met," it reads. "Mr Gillham was not discriminated against because of his political views. What occurred is not and never has been about free speech."

The letter also stated that on August 14, it was allegedly Gillham's agent who informed the MSO he would not be making his concerto appearance.

Peter Garrett and KPMG Australia have been commissioned to conduct an independent external review into the MSO's processes.

“The Board recognises the past few weeks has been a difficult experience for many of our people," the MSO writes in a statement. 'There is a clear understanding that we need to learn from these events to ensure the MSO is best positioned to continue offering world-class cultural experiences for our valued audiences. The appointment of Peter, supported by KPMG, will provide confidence to our musicians, our people and wider community that we are serious about the process.

“We thank the musicians, management and employees of the MSO and our artistic family for their dedication and commitment to their roles as we seek to come back together in serving our audiences,” they added.

Meanwhile, Gillham said that "the actions taken by the MSO constitute direct discrimination because of political belief or activity, which are protected under the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (VIC) and also violate protections under the Fair Work Act 2009," Gillham said.

"These actions infringe my right to freedom of expression and my workplace rights."