Maga Symphony: A Trumpian Vision of Orchestral Unity
In a striking new piece of political art, Jon McNaughton has unveiled his latest painting, Maga Symphony, which offers a fever dream of musical unity centred around Donald Trump. Shared on the former president's Truth Social platform, the artwork depicts Trump as a conductor leading an orchestra composed of prominent political and cultural figures, sparking debate over its portrayal of orchestral dynamics and autocratic symbolism.
The Composition of a Political Orchestra
McNaughton's painting features a bizarrely configured ensemble, with Marco Rubio leading the violins and JD Vance on cello, while Melania Trump is relegated to the second desk. The double basses are manned by Trump's sons and Roger Stone, forming what the artist describes as the foundation of the orchestra's ideological soundworld. Notably, the woodwind and brass sections include four flutes but no oboes, and violas are absent, perhaps hinting at political allegiances. Tucker Carlson appears on cymbals, and Elon Musk is depicted on electric guitar, adding a modern twist to this classical setup.
In his description, McNaughton evokes a sense of rising music and deep stirring emotions, suggesting that when Americans pull together under a shared vision, they create something strong and lasting. This imagery taps into a cultural trope of the all-powerful conductor, a figure historically associated with dictators like Hitler and Stalin, as noted by Elias Canetti in Crowds and Power. The painting reinforces the idea of orchestras as symbols of social control, where musicians obey without dissent.
Orchestras as Models of Society: A Problematic Ideal
The absence of music stands in McNaughton's painting implies a Trumpian telepathy, turning the Maga Symphony into a political seance rather than a musical performance. This concept extends beyond political satire, as orchestras are often used in contexts like Venezuela's El Sistema to promote social harmony through collective effort. However, this ideal is deeply flawed, as real orchestras thrive on tension and individuality, not absolute harmony.
In reality, the best orchestras are not well-oiled machines but models of controlled chaos, where players' emotions and virtuosities create a dynamic balance. Conductors in such settings inspire rather than dictate, fostering a culture of listening and negotiation. McNaughton's work, while comic, troublingly reinstates populist shorthands for autocracy, contrasting with the more collective visions discussed at events like the Association of British Orchestras' annual conference in London.
Reflections on Art and Politics
This painting serves as a poignant commentary on the intersection of art and politics, highlighting how orchestral imagery can be co-opted for ideological purposes. As the UK's orchestral community debates its future, McNaughton's Maga Symphony reminds us of the enduring power of symbols in shaping public perception. Whether seen as kitsch or critique, it underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of both music and governance in today's polarised world.
