The new production of Wagner’s ‘Ring’ cycle at the Berlin State Opera, featuring acclaimed conductor Daniel Barenboim, was one of the most anticipated events on the classical music calendar this season.
But on Tuesday, the production, which opens in October, suffered a setback when Barenboim, who has been grappling with various health issues in recent years, announced he would be pulling out.
“I am deeply saddened that I will not be able to direct the new Ring,” said 79-year-old Barenboim. statement“I now have to prioritize my health and focus on my full recovery.”
In a statement, the Berlin State Opera announced that conductor Christian Thielemann will lead the first and third ‘Ring’ cycles this autumn, while conductor Thomas Guggeis will lead the second. The production, which runs until early November, will be performed by Dmitry Cherniakov.
For classical music giant Barenboim, this was a recent withdrawal from the show.
“I am still suffering from the consequences of my spring-diagnosed vasculitis and am following the advice of my primary care physician in this decision,” he said in a statement.
Berlin State Opera director Matthias Schulz said he was “very sad” that Barenboim could no longer perform. In his statement, he called the production “a unique undertaking that is very close to the heart of him and his entire family.”
“Preparations have been underway for years and we have done everything in our power to make the ‘Ring’ with Daniel Barenboim possible, especially in the year of his 80th birthday,” Schultz said. said Mr.
Barenboim is highly regarded on the European cultural scene as Music Director of the State Opera and Principal Conductor for Life of its Staatskapelle Orchestra. He is also the founder of the West East Divan His Orchestra, an ensemble of young musicians throughout the Middle East, the Conservatory Barenboim His Side His Academy and Berlin Concerts His Hall Pierre His Boulez His He also contributed to the founding of Saar. .
In a statement, Barenboim said the Berlin State Opera was “very close to my heart”. He praised his successor conductor.
“I wish them and everyone the best in this production,” he said.