Homophobia has reared its head in the classical music world via Florida. Sadly, it’s not the punchline of a joke.
Pensacola Christian College in Florida cancelled an appearance last weekend by the renowned choral group The King’s Singers, “upon learning that one of the artists openly maintained a lifestyle that contradicts Scripture”. Their statement of February 13 was posted to Twitter.
The King’s Singers respond
“We are deeply saddened that our concert at Pensacola Christian College was cancelled at two hours’ notice on Saturday, February 11th,” it begins.
They note that the institution, which the Singer’s have performed at more than once in the past, and recognize as a fundamentalist Christian college, mentioned the “lifestyle” of one of the ensemble’s members as the reason.
“Our belief is that music can build a common language that allows people with different views and perspectives to come together.”
The full text is available from their Twitter feed.
In a sad sort of irony…
…the program for their current tour is titled Finding Harmony, which spotlights music that has helped people through times of oppression and adversity.
P.S.
Imagine the response of the Pensacola Christian College in Florida when they discover that George Frideric Handel, the composer of “Messiah” — was a gay male.
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With additional reporting from Michael Vincent
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