New York Philharmonic Members Removed Following Serious Allegations

music hall with golden curtain and audience entering

The New York Philharmonic has taken decisive action amid serious allegations, dismissing two of its key musicians, but the controversy only seems to be escalating.

At a Glance

The New York Philharmonic has fired principal oboist Liang Wang and associate principal trumpet Matthew Muckey due to allegations of sexual misconduct since 2010.
Both musicians were previously dismissed in 2018 but reinstated in 2020 due to union intervention.
Multiple accusations from students and colleagues played a crucial role in their firing.
Their legal teams question the fairness of the investigation, and both musicians deny any wrongdoing.

Allegations and Investigations

The New York Philharmonic announced it is terminating Liang Wang and Matthew Muckey over allegations of sexual misconduct since 2010. This decision comes despite union backing, after a comprehensive investigation delving into accusations initially dismissed in 2018. Both musicians deny any wrongdoing, with legal representation raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process. The Philharmonic’s interim leader, Deborah Borda, stated that their inquiry revealed “patterns of sexual misconduct and abuse of power.”

An internal investigation conducted by Tracey Levy of Levy Employment Law found accusations from multiple women. Specifically, Wang faced claims from 11 women, with some stating he pursued inappropriate relationships with students and leveraged his influence on tenure decisions. Matthew Muckey is accused by three women of misconduct, including sexual abuse and rape, with students also coming forward with allegations.

New York Philharmonic fires two players after accusations of sexual misconduct and abuse of power https://t.co/oHqlp3yDi7

— The Associated Press (@AP) November 5, 2024

Legal Challenges and Union Response

The orchestra’s decision follows the union’s choice not to contest the termination, which takes effect from September 21, 2025. Previously, Wang and Muckey were overturned following a grievance process by Local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians. The decision was made despite allegations against both players dating as far back as 2010. A dismissal review committee recommended non-reengagement unanimously, and reports indicate a majority of orchestra members opposed their return.

Facing strong resistance, three-quarters of the orchestra reportedly refused to share the stage with the two musicians. As a result, Wang and Muckey, while retaining the right to be paid till the start of the next season, are barred from performing with the Philharmonic once more.

Musicians Liang Wang and Matthew Muckey were fired from the New York Philharmonic for sexual misconduct. Why are they back playing with the orchestra? https://t.co/NfQJYLg0mK

— Vulture (@vulture) April 12, 2024

Reaction and Future Implications

The announcement has sparked considerable backlash, with Wang and Muckey suing the orchestra and Local 802, insisting on their innocence. A report was initially circulated in April 2023, but the recent decision has taken the public by storm. The integrity of the Philharmonic’s investigative process is under scrutiny, with legal teams for both musicians condemning the approach as character assassination rather than due process.

The future of these musicians with other orchestras hangs in the balance, and the broader implications for orchestras and the power dynamics within these institutions warrant close attention. Furthermore, Deborah Borda elaborated, “The facts strongly supported our case,” while emphasizing the Philharmonic’s commitment to a lawful process, reflecting the organization’s attempt to balance justice and accountability.