The famous conductor and pianist will no longer appear behind the podium of large orchestras and opera houses, as well as at solo concerts or concerts after receiving an alarming diagnosis.

The master announced the sad news on social networks:

“It is with sadness, but also pride, that I inform you today that I am stepping back from some activities, especially conducting, in the coming months. My health recently took a turn for the worse and I was diagnosed with a severe neurological disease. Now I have to focus as much as possible on recovery.”

He ended his speech by saying:

“Music has been and will remain important and constant in my life. I have lived my life for and through music and will continue to do so as long as my health allows. Looking back and looking forward, I feel not only satisfied, but completely fulfilled.”

The announcement comes after Barenboim canceled numerous shows last month, including the much-anticipated production of The Rings of the Nibelung at the Berlin State Opera.

At the end of August, the master motivated:

“I’m still fighting the effects of the vasculitis I was diagnosed with in the spring, and I’m following the doctors’ advice.” Thus, Christian Teleman and Thomas Guggeis will be the directors of Dmytro Chernyakov’s tetralogy.

Sources: Opera Wire, BBC.