Riccardo Muti weighed in on the situation of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra by issuing a statement in favor of the orchestra.

Muti said, “The closure of the Metropolitan Opera House and the dire situation of its wonderful orchestra embodies deep sorrow, not only for New York City, but for the cultural world as a whole. Without music and the musicians who bring it to life, civil society is doomed to spiritual poverty and barbarism. Music is not entertainment, but rather essential nourishment for the mind and soul.

He continued: “The Met, its orchestra, as well as its artistic and technical teams are a heritage of humanity. The artistic world is incredulous that the very existence of a large orchestra like that of the Met can be in danger and even at the risk of disappearing.

Muto also called as Music Director of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and as a citizen of the world, “to give back to the musicians of the Met the dignity we all deserve and the hope that they can soon come back and share their art with us. . . “

He concluded his letter asking everyone to support the musicians during this difficult time so that the Met’s story does not end in disaster.

Muti has been outspoken during the pandemic, appealing to governments and working to ensure the survival of the arts. At the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra’s New Year’s Gala 2020, the conductor gave a heartfelt speech about the meaning of music and the survival of the arts.

Muti’s letter comes days after the Met’s New Years Gala sparked controversy over hiring musicians not associated with the company. It also comes days after the company announced a fundraising campaign alongside Yannick Nezet-Seguin.