Ben Folds warns that National Symphony Orchestra ‘may not survive’ Kennedy Center chaos

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Grammy-nominated pianist Ben Folds sounded an alarm Tuesday about the National Symphony Orchestra's future, warning the ensemble "is in real trouble" and "may not survive" the ongoing turmoil at the Kennedy Center. Folds, who has collaborated with the NSO, didn't elaborate on specifics but his stark language underscores deepening institutional tensions. The Kennedy Center, one of America's most prestigious performing arts venues, has faced recent management upheaval and financial pressures. The warning from a prominent musician lends credibility to concerns about whether a flagship American orchestra can weather the current crisis.