The New York Philharmonic has fired principal oboist Liang Wang and associate principal trumpet Matthew Muckey following renewed allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse of power. The orchestra issued a notice of non-reengagement to the two effective Sept. 21, 2025, after their union decided not to contest the decision. Allegations against Wang and Muckey date back to 2010 and resulted in their initial firing in September 2018. However, they were ordered to be reinstated in April 2020 by an arbitrator after a grievance was filed by the American Federation of Musicians. Both men deny any wrongdoing, but the latest investigation found that they had been involved in sexual abuse and abuse of power, according to Philharmonic executive adviser Deborah Borda.
The allegations against Wang and Muckey were detailed in an April issue of New York Magazine, which led to the two being placed on paid leave. The men then sued the Philharmonic and the union. Borda stated that 11 women made accusations against Wang and three against Muckey during the latest investigation, with some of the allegations coming from students. Steven J. Hyman, a lawyer for Muckey, defended his client by stating that he had done nothing wrong and criticized the union for agreeing to the decision to terminate their employment. Both Wang and Muckey have legal representation that has pushed back against the allegations and the handling of the situation by the Philharmonic.
Tracey Levy of Levy Employment Law was hired by the Philharmonic to investigate the allegations, and a letter of non-re-engagement was issued on Oct. 15 following her conclusions that were based on new accusations. The orchestra must follow the terms of the labor contract, which requires a notice of non-reengagement to be given by Feb. 15 prior to the season in question. The decision to terminate Wang and Muckey was reviewed by a nine-member dismissal review committee, which made a unanimous recommendation to the executive board of local 802 of the American Federation of Musicians.
Local 802 president Sara Cutler confirmed that the decision not to arbitrate the termination was made, and a written decision would be sent to orchestra members. Cutler acknowledged complaints about the lack of transparency in the process but emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity and confidentiality of all involved. Borda stated that three-quarters of the orchestra members had expressed their refusal to appear on stage with Wang and Muckey, leading to their permanent ban from the building and the stage. Muckey had been with the orchestra since June 2006, while Wang was hired as principal oboe in September 2006. Despite their denial of wrongdoing, they will not be returning to perform with the Philharmonic.
