The internationally renowned conductor, who stepped down from BBC Proms engagements last year after slapping a soloist, has now launched a new orchestra and choir.
Sir John Eliot Gardiner, who clashed with 29-year-old soloist William Thomas over a stage entrance error during the Berlioz Festival in France, issued a public apology after the incident. On Monday, the 81-year-old maestro announced that he will lead a new ensemble called the Springhead Constellation.
He stated: “Since returning to the stage in July in Montpellier, I’ve received warm and enthusiastic messages of support from musicians and organizers, which have been deeply inspiring. I am more grateful than ever to be working with exceptional musicians, while never forgetting the valuable lessons of the past year.”
Gardiner withdrew from his commitments following the incident during a performance of Berlioz’s opera Les Troyens, in which he slapped William Thomas, a bass singer and the UK representative at the Cardiff Singer of the World competition. Gardiner later announced he would seek professional help to manage his anger.
In a statement released last year, he said: “There is no excuse for my behavior, and I offer my personal apology to William Thomas, for whom I have great respect. I also apologize to the other artists for the distress caused. I understand that physical violence is never acceptable and that musicians must always feel safe.”
According to the classical music website Slipped Disc, a representative for Gardiner suggested that his actions may have been linked to recent changes in his medication.
In July, the board of the Monteverdi Choir and Orchestra (MCO) decided that Gardiner would not return as conductor and artistic director. After his departure, over 100 musicians signed a petition calling for his return, but the MCO dismissed the effort as a “dirty tricks campaign” by a small group of individuals.
Gardiner, a two-time Grammy Award winner, made it clear on Monday: “When I parted ways with the MCO earlier this summer, I stated clearly that I was not ready to retire and would instead focus on new projects.”
On this new tour, he will be joined by prominent musicians including Michael Niesemann (principal oboist), Fanny Paccoud (concertmaster), and Kati Debretzeni. The group will perform in December across five cities in Germany, France, Austria, and Luxembourg, with additional tour plans for 2025 and 2026.
According to the press release, the tour will be held at privately hosted venues, allowing Gardiner to bring together top musicians and singers to showcase his unique performance style and quality to select audiences.
In addition, Gardiner conducted the first 20 minutes of music at the coronation ceremony of King Charles this past May, upon the personal invitation of the monarch, who is a close friend.