John Eliot Gardiner withdraws from all engagements until next year
Florence Lockheart
Thursday, August 31, 2023
In a statement issued today, the conductor confirmed he will take 'a step back' from performing to get 'specialist help'
In a further statement released today, conductor Sir John Eliot Gardiner has confirmed he will be stepping down from all future performances 'until next year'.The statement is the conductor's second after accusations that he physically assaulted bass William Thomas backstage during a performance at the Berlioz Festival.
The alleged assault, during which Gardiner is reported to have ‘slapped and punched’ Thomas ‘in the face’, took place during a performance of Berlioz’s Les Troyens last week (22 August) after which Gardiner withdrew from all future performances of Berlioz's opera including his upcoming appearance at the BBC Proms.
Today's statement, which was released this morning by Gardiner's management Intermusica on the conductor's behalf, contained a second apology and confirmed that he will be taking the career break for 'a period of reflection' and to undertake 'an extensive, tailored course of treatment' for his mental health.
The statement includes a quote from Gardiner who said: 'I am taking a step back in order to get the specialist help I recognise that I have needed for some time. I want to apologise to colleagues who have felt badly treated and anyone who may feel let down by my decision to take time out to address my issues. I am heartbroken to have caused so much distress and I am determined to learn from my mistakes.'
The full statement can be found below:
'Sir John Eliot Gardiner has taken the decision to withdraw from all engagements until next year. He will be taking time out of his professional activities for a period of reflection and, in consultation with his medical advisors, will be focussing on his mental health while engaging in a course of counselling. He deeply regrets his behaviour and recognises that it has had a significant impact on colleagues for whom he has the most profound admiration and respect. Throughout his unique 60-year career, John Eliot has striven to encourage and support generations of talented artists, and he passionately believes that all performers should feel comfortable and secure in their working environment. Over the next few months he will be undergoing an extensive, tailored course of treatment and he asks for space and privacy while the programme is ongoing.'
