Béla Fleck Cancels Kennedy Center, Blames "Political" Trump-Era Changes

Grammy-winning musician Béla Fleck has canceled two upcoming performances at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. He directly blamed changes at the institution that began under the previous Trump administration. In a statement, the renowned banjo player said the famed concert hall now feels "charged and political." He stated this atmosphere conflicts with the apolitical nature of his music. Fleck was scheduled to perform with his group, the Flecktones, in October. The Kennedy Center has not yet commented on the cancellation. Some critics online have accused Fleck of giving in to a "woke mob." They argue he is avoiding a venue due to its efforts toward inclusivity. Fleck has not responded to these specific claims. The Kennedy Center's artistic direction has recently focused more on diversity and social justice. This shift began after President Donald Trump appointed new trustees to its board in 2020.