Ben Folds Resigns as Artistic Director of NSO Following Trump’s Move to Replace Leadership
A Major Shake-Up at the Kennedy Center
February 12, 2025: The Kennedy Center has recently found itself at the center of controversy following a major leadership shake-up initiated by former President Donald Trump. Among the notable resignations, acclaimed singer-songwriter Ben Folds has stepped down as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO). His decision comes in response to Trump’s assertion that he has appointed himself as chair of the Kennedy Center and his broader plans to overhaul the institution’s leadership.
Ben Folds Bows Out
Folds, known for his work as the frontman of Ben Folds Five and as an advocate for the arts, took to Instagram to make his resignation public. “Given the developments at the Kennedy Center, effective today I am resigning as artistic advisor to the NSO. Not for me,” he wrote. His departure follows a series of dramatic moves that have raised concerns among many within the arts community.
Trump’s Leadership Overhaul
Earlier this week, Trump posted on Truth Social that he had been elected chair of the Kennedy Center. Additionally, he announced plans to dismiss multiple board members, including chairman David M. Rubenstein. The Kennedy Center has yet to confirm or deny the legitimacy of these claims.
Meanwhile, Deborah F. Rutter, who has served as the Kennedy Center’s president since 2014, also announced her resignation. In a statement, Rutter expressed pride in her tenure, saying, “The goal of the Kennedy Center has been to live up to our namesake, serving as a beacon for the world and ensuring our work reflects America.”
Controversial Appointments
Adding to the tension, Trump has stated that Richard Grenell, his former ambassador to Germany, will serve as interim executive director. Trump characterized Grenell as someone who “shares my Vision for a GOLDEN AGE of American Arts and Culture” and promised to eliminate what he referred to as “ANTI-AMERICAN PROPAGANDA.”
The Kennedy Center, which oversees the NSO, the Washington National Opera, and various theatrical productions, including the Kennedy Center Honors, has yet to issue a formal response. However, a recent statement indicated that they “received no official communications from the White House regarding changes to our board of trustees.”
Ben Folds Reflects on His Time with NSO
Despite the sudden nature of his resignation, Folds took a moment to express gratitude for his time with the NSO. “It’s been a wonderful eight years working with Kennedy Center President Deb Rutter, fellow artistic advisor Renee Fleming, NSO artistic administrator Justin Ellis, and the entire NSO staff, encouraging thousands of fresh new audiences to appreciate symphonic music,” he wrote. “Mostly, and above all, I will miss the musicians of our nation’s symphony orchestra – just the best!”
What’s Next for Ben Folds?
Though he is stepping away from his role at the NSO, Folds remains an influential figure in the arts world. He is expected to focus on his solo music career and continue his advocacy work for music education and arts funding.
Additional News on Ben Folds
In a recent interview, Folds hinted at new music in the works, teasing a return to the studio for a follow-up to his critically acclaimed album What Matters Most. Additionally, he is set to embark on a new tour later this year, which will see him performing across North America and Europe. Fans can also expect him to continue championing arts education initiatives, a cause he has long been passionate about.
As this situation continues to unfold, the arts community will be watching closely to see what further changes may arise at the Kennedy Center. Stay tuned for more updates.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
Sources: Truth Social, Ben Folds’ Instagram Post , Official Kennedy Center Statements, News Outlets
Image Credit: Rick Kern/Getty Images