Virus panic: Orchestra flies to Japan and is sent back home

We hear the Gothenburg Synphony’s tour was cancelled on arrival, due to new virus measures.

Here’s what they tell Slipped Disc:

Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra cancels its two-week tour in Japan.

Today at lunchtime, local time, Japan’s Prime Minister announced that all concerts in the country will be cancelled from today and 14 days ahead to prevent possible spread of the so-called corona virus (covid-19). This affects the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra who would have performed their first concert on Friday 28 February.

The orchestra will now return to Sweden without making any appearance. General Manager and Artistic Director Sten Cranner says of the situation:

“Of course, after so long preparations, it is disappointing that we are now not allowed to perform our 10 planned concerts. At the same time, we have a great understanding of the decision that the government has made – it instills a great deal of confidence in how it works to counteract further spread of the virus. I have to admit that in the current situation, I am happy that the orchestra is coming home safely.”

Japanese authorities have received international attention for their prevention efforts to prevent the spread of covid-19. In the country’s preparations for the Tokyo Olympics this summer, all efforts become extra important and the restrictions are adjusted accordingly.

The Japanese organizer and tour sponsor Fuji deeply regret that the circumstances caused the tour to be canceled but have re-invited Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra to Japan in the coming years.

Chief Conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali was to conduct the tour, with soloists Fumiaki Miura (violin) and Mari Kodama (piano).