Dear Audience at the Yokosuka performance of Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Opera Project XVII Bizet: Carmen
Thank you for your attendance at the Yokosuka performance of the Seiji Ozawa Music Academy Opera Project XVII Bizet: Carmen. As in the Kyoto performances, Seiji Ozawa, Director and Artistic Director of the Academy was scheduled to conduct the prelude to Act 1. However, he became unwell after the March 15 and 17 dates in Kyoto and was diagnosed with acute bronchitis. His attending physician advised that two to three days of hospital treatment was necessary, and we have reached the very difficult decision that he must forgo his appearance in Yokosuka. We deeply apologize to those in the audience who were looking forward to seeing Seiji Ozawa conduct.
Over the last three weeks to this day, Artistic Director Seiji Ozawa, Christian Arming, who will conduct all acts today, the orchestra, the world-class singers, and staff have joined hands in preparing and rehearsing steadily for this opera production. Ozawa especially dedicated all his strength into guiding the Academy Orchestra, which is formed by young, promising musicians chosen by audition.
The performers and Academy students will devote themselves fully so you may enjoy the performance today.
March 21, 2019
Seiji Ozawa Music Academy
VEROZA Japan Company Limited
“My heartfelt apologies to all.
I am deeply disappointed and upset, but am focusing now on my recovery.”
Seiji Ozawa