An “overwhelming majority” of the musicians of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) have expressed no confidence in the orchestra’s senior management in the wake of the MSO’s decision to cancel a performance by pianist Jayson Gilham.

In a letter communicating the result of a meeting held on the evening of 15 August – the evening Gilham’s concert was to have taken place – the musicians of the MSO delivered a broadside to Managing Director Sophie Galaise and Chief Operating Officer Guy Ross.

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. Photo supplied

“We believe it is the duty of senior management to lead and manage in accordance with the MSO’s Values and Behaviours, however it has become apparent that these values no longer appear to be aligned with those of the Orchestra and staff,” began the letter.

“Furthermore, despite ongoing attempts to engage with senior leadership and provide feedback through formal channels; including committee consultations, employee culture surveys and internal grievance procedures, the response from management has been insufficient, and in many cases dismissive.”

The letter went on to criticise the MSO leadership for a workplace characterised by poor communication, a lack of accountability and...