Barenboim Announces Parkinson's Diagnosis but Will Maintain Commitments

Daniel Barenboim revealed on Thursday the neurological condition he has been dealing with in recent times. It is Parkinson's disease, an ailment that has slowed his pace and commitments over the past three years, during which he had already cancelled some engagements without specifying the illness he was suffering from.

Now, the Argentine-Israeli pianist and conductor has elaborated on his health status in a statement, naming his condition. "I know many people have been concerned about my health. I have been deeply moved by the support I have received over the past three years. Today, I want to share that I have Parkinson's disease," explained Barenboim, aged 82, who also suffers from a rheumatic vascular disease.

In any case, Thursday's announcement is not a retirement. Despite the illness, the veteran conductor intends for this not to be the end of a career spanning over 70 years—having debuted as an international pianist at the young age of 10. For now, he commits to continue working, albeit with a reduced schedule, primarily linked to the peace music project he leads with young Arab and Israeli talents.

"As always, I consider the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra my most important responsibility. It is essential for me to ensure the orchestra's long-term stability and development," he added in his social media post. This orchestra was founded in 1999 as a project with the late American writer of Palestinian origin, Edward Said.

The leitmotif of the West-Eastern Divan is to bring together each summer a group of talented young musicians, both Israeli and Palestinian, Arabs and even Spaniards, to spread a message of peace. This initiative earned him the Prince of Asturias Award for Concord in 2002 alongside Said.

"I will continue to conduct the orchestra as long as my health allows. At the same time, I will play an active role in ensuring the orchestra has the opportunity to work with excellent conductors in the future. I have been navigating this new reality, and my goal is to receive the best possible care. I thank everyone for their kindness and good wishes," concludes the statement from the Buenos Aires-born pianist.