The London Philharmonic Orchestra conductor Ed Gardner has issued a public apology, via Italian media and slippedisc.com, to chorus members at Teatro San Carlo in Naples whom he falsely accused of being associated with two mafia families.
He writes:
I would like to sincerely apologise to the members of the chorus of the San Carlo Opera House, Naples for my recent comments in an interview with The Times. I have deep respect and appreciation for the choir and its members. Shortly before my arrival in Naples I was informed that two members of the chorus had a public fight just outside the theatre resulting in one person being hospitalised. I was very surprised by this. However I did not intend to suggest that the choir were members of the mafia, and I am more than happy to retract that allegation.
Performing Beethoven’s 9th together in Ravello last summer was a meaningful experience that highlighted the talent, dedication, and hard work of this group. I regret that anything I said may have suggested otherwise because I have experienced firsthand the professionalism and excellence of this choir and I want to make it clear how much I value and respect everyone involved.
Sincerely,
Edward Gardner
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