Violinist Lara St. John’s Documentary Exposes Global Sexual Abuse in Classical Music
Lara St. John’s film “Dear Lara” reveals a pattern of sexual abuse by teachers at elite music schools, featuring survivor testimonies and prompting institutional reforms.
Canadian violinist Lara St. John released the documentary “Dear Lara,” a seven-year project that chronicles sexual abuse by teachers at prestigious conservatories and orchestras. The film includes first-hand accounts from eight survivors, ranging from pianists to opera singers, and interweaves archival material and expert commentary. St. John’s own allegation against former Curtis Institute instructor Jascha Brodsky, made public in 2019, spurred a credibility report and policy changes at Curtis, including a Title IX coordinator and a trauma counseling fund.
After the film’s screenings, the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto faced pressure to investigate historic abuse claims. The documentary also aligns with advocacy for Pennsylvania House Bill 462, which seeks a two-year window for survivors to file lawsuits, a measure that has passed the House but stalled in the Senate. St. John plans to release a soundtrack and eventually establish a foundation to aid survivors seeking justice.
Why it matters
The film shines a light on pervasive abuse in classical music, prompting reforms and legal action to protect vulnerable students.
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