Chamber music festival meets #MeToo
The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival did the right thing by canceling the remaining performances of violinist William Preucil. The well-known performer and concertmaster has been accused of sexual improprieties, a result of an investigation by the Washington Post about harassment and intimidation in the classical music world. Preucil was caught in the examination.
Concertmaster of the Cleveland Orchestra for more than 20 years — he is on suspension from that position — Preucil had been coming to Santa Fe for many seasons. After allegations surfaced, he completed one performance this summer before the rest were canceled.
As the nation continues to sort through the various allegations against famous (and not-so famous) people, it is important to avoid the proverbial rush to judgment while, at the same time, also taking a victim’s words seriously. The people who are reporting their experiences deserve to be heard. Reaching a balance is no simple task.
The incident at the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival is instructive in other ways, too. Initially after being told about the Post story, Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival officials appeared to believe the show would go on and Preucil would perform. Yet other venues moved with dispatch to cancel the violinist’s appearances.
These groups knew that business as usual is not the best response to serious misconduct allegations. That’s lesson one, not just for the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival, but for all of us. The initial stumble was put right — eventually.
Festival officials also did an inadequate job in responding to the allegations, failing to return calls asking for comment. Officials finally let the newspaper know that Preucil would not appear. Other groups associated with Preucil issued full statements, a more transparent way of handling the incident.
Organizations — all of them — have to realize that some person, even someone from the past-associated with their group likely will be judged guilty of some sort of misconduct. Before the story breaks, have a few mock crisis sessions and practice how to respond.
Otherwise, what happened to the festival might be your fate. First, the news broke and the board chairman said: “I’m sorry to hear that there’s a story out there.”
People need to acknowledge the seriousness of the alleged activities, not the publicity. Mary Conant, a commenter on Facebook, drafted this appropriate reply instead: “How about, ‘The Board of Trustees takes these matters seriously and we’ll be looking into it immediately.’ ” That’s the right response.
Now, the show can continue with the focus on music — there’s even an Aug. 4 harpsichord recital, featuring Bach and Bartók, by Paolo Bordignon of the New York Philharmonic.
Or, you might prefer a noon piano recital; exciting new music; or the wonderful classic concerts featuring Mozart, Beethoven, Dvorak and others.
The balance of a rich season awaits. The summer season at the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival remains an inviting, refreshing way to spend time with great music and spectacular performances.
Don’t miss out.