Dutch TV Spotlights Tensions in Orchestras Led by Former Dallas Symphony Director

During Jaap van Zweden's ten-year tenure as music director of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, which spanned from 2008 to 2018, significant developments occurred. a dramatic improvement In the orchestra’s precise yet adaptable performances, behind-the-scenes accounts revealed intense, pressure-filled practice sessions and outbursts of frustration that had significant impacts. No one was willing to comment officially on these issues. a 2014 story by former Dallas Morning News reporter Michael Granberry, yet these stories had been circulating.

Currently, Pointer, which is the investigatory branch of Dutch public broadcaster KRO-NCRV, has generated a program Reporting on conflicts at several orchestras directed by Van Zweden: Following his tenure in Dallas, Van Zweden steered the New York Philharmonic from 2018 through 2024. During this period, he also concurrently managed the Hong Kong Philharmonic before assuming leadership of the Seoul Philharmonic.

The Dutch program is based on more than 50 interviews that included orchestra managers and staff as well as musicians, according to the broadcaster. Many of the people interviewed go unnamed. Of van Zweden’s anger, Dutch lawyer and researcher Marjan Olfers told the program, “People who experienced and endured it had their boundaries crossed. Sometimes with severe consequences.”

Van Zweden responded, "There are times when I might adopt a harsh tone, and if this happens with 120 others present, it wouldn't be comfortable. ... Nonetheless, such incidents should not serve as justification for a workplace atmosphere where individuals feel restricted or rely on calming medications...."

I certainly welcome feedback. Should there be room for enhancing how I operate, I would appreciate knowing about it.

When asked for comments on the report, Denise McGovern, who serves as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s vice president for communications, responded by telling The Dallas Morning News The orchestra had nothing further to contribute.

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