Classical music conductor John Eliot Gardiner takes leave amid backstage altercation
John Eliot Gardiner has made the decision to withdraw from all his scheduled commitments until the coming year following allegations of an altercation with a singer backstage following a concert.
In a statement released on Thursday, the British conductor explained his decision, saying, «I am stepping back to seek the specialist help I recognize that I have needed for some time.» His agency, Intermusica, also expressed regret for his behavior and confirmed his intention to undergo counseling.
At the age of 80, Gardiner reportedly got into a fight with bass singer William Thomas right after a performance of Berlioz's opera "Les Troyens" at the Festival Berlioz in La Cote-Saint-Andre, southeast France.
The conductor allegedly attacked Thomas after the performance and punched him in the face and lips while threatening to pour beer over his head, according to The Times, a U.K. daily.
In response to these events, Thomas' management company, Askonas Holt, issued a statement last week confirming that «an incident» had indeed occurred.
They emphasized the importance of providing all musicians with an environment free from abuse or physical harm, asserting their right to practice their art without fear.
Gardiner, a Grammy-winning baroque music conductor, had previously led his Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists in a performance at the coronation ceremony of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey in May. His contributions to music were recognized when he was knighted in 1998.
The conductor has been a prominent figure at the annual BBC Proms, making more than 60 appearances at this prestigious summer classical music event.
