Famed pianist Maria João Pires suffers minor stroke
The famed Portuguese pianist has cancelled summer concerts, cites need for rest and reflection.
Portuguese pianist Maria João Pires, one of the most celebrated classical musicians of her generation, has announced a temporary withdrawal from public performances after suffering a minor stroke.
The incident led to the cancellation of several concerts in Portugal, including scheduled appearances in Braga (June 13), Sintra (June 15), and Faro (June 18).
Teatro das Figuras in Faro confirmed the cancellation via social media, noting that all ticket holders will be refunded by July 11.
Pires, who turns 81 next month, also has international concerts scheduled in Monaco (June 22), The Hague (June 30), and a multi-date tour in Japan in early August as part of annual peace events.
Additional performances are slated for London (September 9), Amsterdam (September 30), and Milan’s Teatro alla Scala (October 5), in collaboration with German baritone Matthias Goerne.
It remains unclear how these international engagements will be affected.
On Monday, Pires posted a personal message to fans, saying:
"Dear friends, I regret to inform you that I will have to step away from the stage for some time. A cerebrovascular health issue has arisen, which I see as a sign — perhaps a warning. I will devote this period to rediscovering the balance between body and spirit, and to finding joy in retreating, reading, meditating, and learning from the lessons life wishes to teach me. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your patience, your support, and your comforting words. With all my affection, MJP."
Widely regarded as Portugal’s most distinguished pianist, Pires began performing publicly at the age of four.
Her illustrious career includes a first prize at the Beethoven International Competition in 1970 and a Grammy nomination for her interpretations of Schubert. She has long been praised for her deep emotional insight and poetic touch.
Despite the setback, fans and the classical music world remain hopeful for her recovery and eventual return to the concert stage.