Michigan hushes up music scandal

Remember the University of Michigan?

It’s where the last president was fired for allegedly coming on to a staff member. But that’s the least of its misdeeds.

It ignored years of sexual abuse by violin professor Stephen Shipps.

It dithered over claims of sexual assault by countertenor David Daniels.

It unfairly banned composer Bright Sheng for showing Laurence Olivier’s blackface Otello.

And more.

Now, students at the Voice and Opera Department have been told that Dr Scott Piper has been placed ‘on administrative leave’ and may not be contacted.

Dr Piper, a Paul Robeson Scholar Award winner, was a star pupil of George Shirley and Shirley Verrett. Piper was replaced in June as department chair and relieved of all involvement in the summer vocal program.

His suspension is said to be a ‘Title IX’ issue but the university is not commenting.

Watch this space.

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