US principal trombone is fired over riot racism

The Austin Symphony Orchestra has dismissed Brenda Sansig Salas, its principal trombone, over remarks she made on social media in connection with the US urban riots. We understand she has also been dismissed by Austin Opera.

This was one of her blasts online:

Austin Symphony Orchestra tweeted soon after: We have been made aware that a musician of the Austin Symphony Orchestra has made an offensive post on their social media account regarding the protests across our country. This language is not reflective of who we are as an organization. The ASO is committed to being an inclusive organization as well as provide a safe space for all. We will follow up on the situation and take appropriate action.

Its executive director Anthony Corroa added: ‘We would like to thank the community and let you know that your voice was heard. As previously stated, we were made aware of offensive posts that were shared on social media by one of our musicians late last night. Once alerted, we were appalled by the comments as they are clearly not reflective of who we are as an organization. We began to work quickly and closely with the American Federation of Musicians, our Orchestra Committee, staff and other key members.

‘At this time we can state that the musician is no longer employed by the ASO for there is no place for hate within our organization. Thank you for your patience while we navigated through the necessary channels.’

UPDATE Brenda Sansig Salas joined the Austin Symphony in 2005 as second trombone, earning promotion to principal two years later. This was her picture on the orchestra’s website. It was taken down in the past few hours.