Bard College President Leon Botstein interviewed in das Orchester

Leon Botstein, President of Bard College and director of The Orchestra Now (TŌN), was interviewed in das Orchester in an article titled “Die Freiheit Verteidigung” (The Defense of Freedom).

In the interview, Botstein discusses his life’s commitment to music and education, The Orchestra Now’s commemorative May 2025 concert in Nuremberg marking 80 years since the end of World War II, as well as current events in American culture and politics.

“We who work in universities and cultural life have a duty to fight against authoritarian rule,” Botstein states. “It is now our primary task to defend the tradition of freedom, research, and truth... Without a clear distinction between lies and truth, there can be no debate about democracy.”

In the conclusion of the interview, Botstein mentions the international student body of Bard College Berlin, noting “Bard Berlin is doing well, and I am very proud of it.”

Botstein’s full interview can be read in the October 2025 print edition of das Orchester. 

Post Date: 10-27-2025