The 80-year-old musician, who held the position since 1992 and had a contract until 2027, said that his decision to resign will be effective on January 31.
Last October and after having given up several commitments due to health problems, Barenboim had announced that he suffered from a “serious neurological disease”. Nevertheless, he resumed the baton to conduct Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in two New Year’s concerts on December 31 and January 1, before a packed Staatsoper who cheered him on.
“Over the years, we have become a musical family and will continue to be so”he said in his statement. And he added: “It goes without saying that I will continue -as long as I live- closely linked to music and that I am willing to continue directing, also and especially with the Staatskapelle Berlin”.
Born in Argentina, Barenboim made his international debut as a pianist at the age of ten, before becoming a noted conductor. He also created a foundation and an orchestra to promote cooperation between young musicians from Israel and Arab countries.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
