Bartoli: My Salzburg festival is off

Hours after the Austrian chancellor ordered no public performances before mid-June, Cecilia Bartoli published this statement:

Dear Friends,

I am so terribly sorry that, due to the current situation, we are obliged to cancel this year’s Whitsun Festival in Salzburg!

I was so much looking forward to starting the rehearsals together with the fantastic Salzburg team, with my artist colleagues and to meeting our faithful public and friends who come to Salzburg every year or those who wanted to be there for the first time this year!

This decision breaks my heart, but one thing is evident – health comes first! There is no question that we, our whole society, must pull together and protect ourselves and our loved ones. These are difficult times for all of us but I am sure that the power of music will help us get through this.

Together with the Directorate of the Salzburg Festival we are already working on the exciting future, and I look forward to seeing you all as soon as possible! Until then, take good care of yourself, stay healthy and strong!

Yours, Cecilia Bartoli