National Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Steps Down Amid Trump's Kennedy Center Takeover

"It's no secret that this has been a really hard year. So I started looking for a new opportunity several months ago. We need Washington - donors, audiences - to support the orchestra for it to survive."

"Davidson cited the increasingly fraught environment at the Kennedy Center, home of the NSO, following Donald Trump's takeover as the impetus for her decision. She pointed specifically to recent cancellations involving artists such as Philip Glass and Béla Fleck, as well as Trump's abrupt decision to close the Kennedy Center for two years for renovations without advance notice."

Jean Davidson has resigned as executive director of the National Symphony Orchestra, citing the increasingly difficult environment at the Kennedy Center following Donald Trump's takeover of its board. She referenced recent cancellations by artists including Philip Glass and Béla Fleck, as well as Trump's sudden decision to close the Kennedy Center for two years of renovations without prior notice. Davidson began seeking new opportunities several months ago due to these challenging circumstances. Music director Gianandrea Noseda will continue leading the NSO. Despite her departure, Davidson expressed confidence in the orchestra's long-term survival, though she emphasized the need for Washington-based donors and audiences to provide support. Davidson joins numerous other high-profile figures who have severed ties with the Kennedy Center, including Hamilton's touring production, composer Stephen Schwartz, and musicians Renée Fleming and Rhiannon Giddens. The Washington National Opera also ended its 55-year relationship with the institution.

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