A performance of “Ode to Joy” has been canceled after a Scottish choir refused an American orchestra’s demand to wear masks while singing.
The 130-person Edinburgh Festival Chorus was due to perform Beethoven’s “Ninth Symphony” alongside the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Edinburgh International Festival on Aug 25.
Masks While Singing
But the choir rejected the U.S. orchestra’s calls to wear masks while singing, canceling the event. Beethoven’s “Fifth Symphony” will now be performed as it does not require a choir. Since April, people in Scotland are no longer legally required to wear face coverings.
The Festival described the Philadelphia Orchestra, which has a residency this year, as one of “America’s most accomplished,” and had anticipated the “Ode to Joy” performance as one of its top events at The Usher Hall….