Outspoken: Music for Free Speech(2025)

Outspoken: Music for Free Speech Synopsis

Take a seat with us at FIRE’s first-ever classical music concert in support of free expression: “Outspoken: Music for Free Speech.” At the podium is conductor Rebecca Bryant Novak, a former doctoral student at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music. Taking the stage for the first time since she was expelled without due process after speaking out about alleged harassment, Rebecca leads an all-volunteer orchestra in an unforgettable evening of music. Internationally acclaimed musicians, violinist Lara St. John and oboist Katherine Needleman, bring the stage to life with works by composers who themselves faced censorship, from Mozart to Shostakovich. Between performances, FIRE staff and special guests reflect on why free expression is essential for artists, and for all of us. The arts cannot thrive without free expression. Thank you to everyone who made this night possible!

Outspoken: Music for Free Speech (2025) is a documentary and music film directed by Ronald Baez, released on December 16, 2025 with a runtime of 47m. It stars Rebecca Bryant Novak, Lara St. John, Angel Eduardo and Katherine Needleman.