Daniel Barenboim recently returned to the stage to perform with violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter and his West-Eastern Divan Orchestra in Prom 31 at London’s BBC Proms in Royal Albert Hall.
After a two-year hiatus due to health issues, the legendary 82-year-old conductor Daniel Barenboim made a triumphant return to the stage at London’s BBC Proms. His performance was a poignant moment, showcasing his enduring passion and artistry despite the challenges he faced. Barenboim’s return was met with admiration and respect, marking a significant highlight in this year’s Proms and celebrating his remarkable contribution to classical music over the decades.
In 2022, the 81-year-old had publicly announced his stepping back from performance and conducting engagements for the coming months, after being diagnosed with a serious medical condition.
“My health has deteriorated over the last months, and I have been diagnosed with a serious neurological condition,” Barenboim wrote at the time. “I must now focus on my physical well-being as much as possible.”
The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra and Barenboim last performed at the BBC Proms five years ago. Their latest concert was broadcast live on BBC Radio 3.
“[Barenboim’s] conducting grew more animated and the playing had the requisite grandeur,” reviewed Martin Kettle in The Guardian. “The result was Schubert’s extraordinary symphony as it ought to be heard but rarely is. It was already an unforgettable evening. This performance alone made it a great one.”
Barenboim has been the general music director at the Berlin State Opera since 1992, among other directorships. Alongside Edward Said, he is the co-founder of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, which promotes friendship and collegiality between Israel and the Arab nations.
