Taipei Music Festival's Artistic Director Steps Down

Violinist Cho-Liang Lin has stepped down as the festival’s artistic director following recent accusations by two women of sexual harassment

Taiwan’s Taipei Music Academy and Festival (TMAF) has withdrawn Taiwanese-American violinist Cho-liang “Jimmy” Lin, 63, from its artistic director position.

Further, Lin’s festival performances and appearance at the TMAF All-Star Concert on August 9, 2023, have been canceled. 

This announcement comes as allegations made by cellist Annie Chang and pianist Lin Lan-hsuan, accused Lin of verbal and physical sexual harassment in 2018 and 2011, respectively.

In response to the allegations, the violinist released a statement through a law firm on June 22, 2023, stating the reports “cause unwarranted harm” to his family and reputation.

According to Taiwan News, Lan-hsuan said Chang had reached out to support her, after previous encounters with the violinist releasing statements against the allegations.

Lin’s law firm statement continued, saying that while “such reports and speculative insinuations are used to promote the equal rights movement…[the accusations in question] deliberately discredits or attempts to destroy Mr. Lin’s years of experience in the music profession.”

On June 30, 2023, the TMAF posted on Facebook that American conductor Leonard Slatkin will be assuming Lin’s role.

“[We] would like to announce that this year’s music festival will be replaced by conductor Leonard Slatkin as the artistic director,” the TMAF Office wrote on Facebook. “It is expected that under his leadership, the music festival can open another new atmosphere. 

“We sincerely hope that the public will continue to give us suggestions and advice in the future, so that TMAF can continue to move forward positively, so that this important cultural heritage can continue to benefit more young students.”

In response to the allegations, Cho-Liang Lin posted on Facebook with a statement that reads:

"For over forty years my career has been forged on the principles of discipline, integrity and perfectionism. I am deeply saddened by the recent allegations against me.

These days, in order not to affect the young students of the TMAF festival, I quietly continue to devote myself to music and work, hoping that the society will calm down the social disputes as soon as possible. Let music continue to present the beautiful and kind side of human nature.

I have never in my life tried to make anyone uncomfortable, nor have I ever violated anyone without their consent. I apologize if I have made anyone feel uncomfortable or unsafe, and I sincerely feel remorse.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my friends, colleagues and music lovers who have always supported me. Your trust and friendship have given me infinite strength and hope in this dark moment."