Violinist suspended for criticism of Israel

Sarah Streatfeild, one of four musicians suspended by the London Philharmonic Orchestra LPO last September for voicing her opposition over a visit by the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra IPO to London, is suing her employers. Ms Streatfeild, who has worked as a violinist for the LPO for the last 25 years, was suspended along with three other musicians – cellist Sue Sutherley and violinists Tom Eisner and Nancy Elan – after she appealed in a letter for the BBC Proms to cancel an invitation extended to the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, due to the Israeli state's policies in regards to Palestinians. Since last September, the four musicians have not received their salaries from the LPO The letter stated as follows: "The IPO has a deep involvement with the Israeli state – not least its self-proclaimed'partnership' with the Israeli Defence Forces. This is the same state and army that impedes in every way it can the development of Palestinian culture, including the prevention of Palestinian musicians from traveling abroad to perform." Also backed by leading artist figures as Mike Leigh and Ken Loach, the letter has had a huge impact and provoked a strong reaction from the LPO. Despite the appeal by several musicians,the Proms concert went ahead at the Royal Albert Hall but was disrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters. The BBC was forced to suspend its live Radio 3 broadcast as demonstrators drowned out the orchestra. Although she firmly stands by her right to express her ‘humanist beliefs’, Streatfeild says in her claim that she meant the letter to be addressed to the BBC management only and not to a public forum. The violinist is now seeking a formal apology for the damage caused to her reputation and a formal acknowledgment that she has been discriminated on the ground of her personal beliefs. Moreover, she is asking for a compensation for the injury to her feelings, reputation and loss of earnings. Despite numerous attempts by 'Arabstoday', the LPO refused to comment on the matter. Cellist Sue Sutherley is still working at the LPO, while violinist Tom Eisner has played with an orchestra in Denmark. However, Ms Streatfeild is not believed to have worked since September. The LPO’s decision has attracted a wide range of criticism and even a Facebook group was set up to ‘End Suspension of the LPO4.’