US judge quits Polish contest over Russian music ban

Francesca Zambello, director of Washington National Opera, has withdrawn from judging the Karol Szymanowski Competition in Katowice, Poland, following its ban on the performance of Russian music.

Zambello writes:

Dear Magdelena and Anna:

I have just heard from Thomas Hampson about your rules for the exclusion of Russian repertory
from the competition. 

I am against the actions of President Putin, but I am not against Russian history, music or art.  
I am also a recipient of the Medal for Service to Culture to Russia, presented to me by the Minister of Culture.  
I am also the artistic leader of the Washington National Opera representing the United States for culture. 

Bearing these things in mind, I have to respectfully withdraw my participation as much as 
I wanted to come to Poland and work with you. I hope when peace prevails we can try again. 

Kind regards,

Francesca