Conductor John Eliot Gardiner Has Stepped Down From His Position With The Monteverdi Choir In Light Of An Assault Allegation.

The Monteverdi Choir and Orchestras (MCO) announced that Sir John Eliot Gardiner, the celebrated British conductor renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to baroque music, has relinquished his position as leader and artistic director.

Mr. Gardiner’s departure stems from an incident in August 2023, during which he was alleged to have struck bass singer William Thomas following a performance of Berlioz’s opera Les Troyens at the Festival Berlioz in La Côte-Saint-André, southeastern France.

The organization expressed its gratitude for Mr. Gardiner’s significant contributions spanning six decades and is committed to preserving his legacy. The conductor’s departure marks the end of an era for the MCO, an organization he has guided since its inception in 1964.

“I have engaged in extensive therapy and counseling over the past 11 months, gaining valuable insights into my behavior and personal growth. It has become evident that, for the benefit of both myself and the MCO, a clear change in our relationship is necessary,” stated Mr. Gardiner.

Nevertheless, Mr. Gardiner’s departure from the MCO does not signify his retirement from the music world. In the statement, he expressed his intention to pursue various activities, including guest conducting, recording, writing, and engaging in creative and educational projects.

At the conclusion of the summer, the MCO plans to introduce new conductors who will lead an upcoming season of projects. The choir and orchestras are poised to achieve new creative milestones and groundbreaking accomplishments as they embark on this new chapter.

The MCO’s board expressed its appreciation for Mr. Gardiner’s contributions and the enduring impact of his musical influence.

“The MCO acknowledges Mr. Gardiner’s monumental contribution and remains steadfast in its commitment to honor and preserve these remarkable achievements,” the board stated in a released statement.

The organization takes pride in having nurtured and supported his illustrious career, as well as those of numerous other musicians. They will passionately continue to build upon the extraordinary foundations laid by the three ensembles he established, carrying forward their groundbreaking work with new talents and benchmark performances for years to come.