Detroit Symphony Orchestra music director Leonard Slatkin to have heart-pass surgery next week, forcing withdrawal from three upcoming concerts.
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra announced Friday that music director Leonard Slatkin will undergo heart-bypass surgery next week.
As a consequence, Slatkin, 73, will not conduct the last three Classical Series subscription concerts of this season, which will be his last as music director.
As long planned, Slatkin will return in the fall with a new title, “music director laureate,” for the 2018-2019 season, when he will conduct five weeks.
In a prepared statement, Slatkin said he and his wife, composer Cindy McTee, are very disappointed to have to cancel, “but I also know that all of you will understand the necessity of taking care of these health issues.”
The DSO will announce replacement conductors for the three concerts in the coming days.
Slatkin said his cardiologists are outstanding and have assured him surgery should fix his heart issues. His recovery is expected to take about three months.
Slatkin also has canceled upcoming European concerts and with the Chamber Music Society of St. Louis.
Citing his “extraordinary leadership,” DSO President and CEO Anne Parsons said in the statement, “The entire DSO family wishes Leonard all the best for a complete recovery.”
As previously announced, the DSO will honor Slatkin and philanthropists Penny and Harold Blumenstein on June 23 at its annual Heroes Gala.
