The Toronto Symphony Orchestra has replaced Ukrainian-born piano soloist Valentina Lisitsa in several performances this week, citing “ongoing accusations of deeply offensive language by Ukrainian media outlets” — a decision which has sparked online backlash from the popular pianist’s fans.
TSO president and CEO Jeff Melanson told Torstar News Service in a statement that the symphony has replaced Lisitsa in its April 8 and 9 performances of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2.
“Valentina Lisitsa’s provocative comments have overshadowed past performances,” Melanson said in the statement.
“As one of Canada’s most important cultural institutions, our priority must remain on being a stage for the …read more
Source: Metro News
