The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra Musicians have released a statement regarding the recent current events.

The musicians noted, “The MET Orchestra Musicians are horrified by the instances of police brutality and racial injustice that have caused incredible pain for the Black community and unrest in our country. The events of recent weeks have led us to reflect on ways The Metropolitan Opera, as an organization, can make real and lasting changes and how the MET Orchestra Musicians can play a meaningful role in that process.”

“We appreciate that The Metropolitan Opera has recognized the need to acknowledge the mistakes of the past and that they have expressed a willingness to open conversations going forward about equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDIB). We stand in agreement with our music director, Yannick Nezet-Seguin, in his recent statements acknowledging the need for systemic change with regards to EDIB at The Metropolitan Opera. In order for our company to be its best, it must create an inclusive environment where every person – performers, stagehands, staff members, and audience – feels they truly belong.”

The orchestra also made several recommendations to the Met which included the company committing to hiring composers and conductors of color in the operatic and symphonic seasons each year; hiring soloists of color during each Carnegie Hall season; hiring people of color in upper administration; adjusting its mission to include serving and engaging communities of color; and an external review of the organization that focuses on issues of EDIB, among others.

The statement comes after the company responded to criticism it faced in recent weeks.

Here is the full statement: