Pianist Fazıl Say Removed from Swiss Concert Program for Expressing Views on Israel-Gaza Conflict
Renowned pianist Fazıl Say has announced that he has been removed from the concert program he was scheduled to perform in Switzerland due to his statements about Israel's attacks in Gaza.
"I had trusted that in Europe we can rely on freedom of expression, I knew it as darkness and lack of understanding would not be experienced. I want to point out that my trust has been significantly shaken in the face of this disturbing incident.
Say made the announcement of the cancellations on his social media account, stating,
'In Switzerland, I have been removed from the lineup of the planned four concerts organized by the concert organization unit of the MIGROS company. Officials from MIGROS cited the ideas I expressed on the Israel-Palestine tension on my social media as the reason. Everything I've written remains on my social media without any changes. They will also make a statement themselves.'
"I am for peace, and all my statements were in the spirit of peace. And I have always been in favor of the good, of compromise, and of jointly seeking a beautiful future."
Due to the cancellation, Say will not be able to perform with the Birmingham Orchestra in the concerts scheduled for October 23 in Zurich, October 24 in Bern, October 25 in Geneva, and October 26 in Lucerne. He shared the following note:
As someone who has been to Israel for 24 years, I have been saddened by terrorist incidents like everyone else. I have always had an approach that seeks to understand both sides of this troubled issue. I also wrote that I find Netanyahu's war politics, which have no future, to be very wrong and cruel. And finally, I found Erdogan's approach to this issue 'sensible and peaceful' for both sides, and I supported it.
The Intersection of Art, Politics, and Consequence: Fazıl Say's Story Highlights the Need for Dialogue and Empathy in a Divided World
As artists and individuals continue to use their voices to express their views and advocate for peace and justice, Fazıl Say's situation illustrates the complexities and potential consequences that may arise when one's convictions collide with the broader societal and political landscape. Nevertheless, it also underscores the importance of continued efforts to promote dialogue, empathy, and understanding as means of resolving complex international conflicts and working toward a more peaceful world.
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