Permanent Suspension of Use of Music by David Haas

This is a follow up to the directive published in the September 7, 2020 Admin Weekly, asking parishes to cease using music composed by David Haas until the investigation into allegations of his sexual assault have been completed. The letter from GIA confirms the permanent suspension of his music at public worship.

Letter from GIA Publishing

Last year, we were deeply heartbroken as dozens of women came forward to share their allegations of sexual assault by composer David Haas. I assume that by now you are aware of the non-profit organization that supports survivors of sexual abuse, Into Account, which recently released a comprehensive investigation and report about these allegations at www.intoaccount.org/reports/. Unfortunately, new information has just surfaced reporting continued grooming behaviors by Mr. Haas towards a young woman, which is why we are reaching out to you now with this email to share the actions and position we have taken with regard to Mr. Haas’ music.  

Specifically, we have suspended our publishing and sponsorship relationship with Mr. Haas and have also removed his music, books, and recordings from our catalog and website. While we understand that Mr. Haas maintains his innocence, we took these actions out of compassion and respect for the dozens of survivors who have come forward and because we believe Mr. Haas’ music no longer has a place in communities committed to maintaining a safe environment. 
 

From the September 7, 2020 Admin Weekly

As Catholics, we are committed to safe environments for all and we affirm our support for those who have been harmed. Unfortunately, it has come to our attention that a prominent composer of liturgical music, David Haas, has had multiple allegations of misconduct levied against him.  These allegations are being investigated by the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. 

Given the serious nature of the allegations we feel it is inappropriate to use his music in Catholic worship until the investigations have concluded. Parishes in the Diocese of Oakland are asked to stop using any music by David Haas and look for suitable alternatives.