Two New York Philharmonic musicians, trumpeter Matthew Muckey and oboist Liang Wang, have filed lawsuits against the orchestra, claiming they were wrongfully suspended after allegations of misconduct resurfaced in a recent magazine article. The lawsuits allege that the Philharmonic violated previous arbitration rulings and that their union, Local 802, failed to provide fair representation.
Why it matters:
- Questions of Due Process: The lawsuits highlight the importance of due process and fairness in addressing allegations of misconduct, ensuring that individuals are not subjected to suspension or dismissal without proper investigation and legal recourse. Muckey’s and Wang’s lawsuits note they were already subject to investigations and ultimately cleared and reinstated by an arbitrator in 2020.
- Impact on Careers: The legal action underscores the significant impact that suspensions and public allegations can have on the careers of musicians, affecting their opportunities for performances, teaching positions, and professional engagements.
