The renowned pianist Maria João Pires announced on Sunday that she will be stepping away from the stage for an indefinite period due to a “cerebrovascular health issue,” which emerged following a mild stroke she suffered last week.
“Dear friends, I regret to inform you that I must step away from the stage for some time. I have developed a cerebrovascular health issue, which I see as a sign, perhaps a warning. I will dedicate this period to rediscovering balance between body and spirit and finding joy in withdrawing, reading, meditating, and learning the lessons life wishes to teach me,” Maria João Pires stated in an Instagram post.
At the end of the statement, she expressed gratitude to all her followers for their “patience” and “support”.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your patience, support, and comforting words,” added the pianist.
Maria João Pires suffered a mild stroke early last week, leading to the cancellation of several concerts.
In addition to performances in Braga, Faro, and Sintra, Maria João Pires also had concerts scheduled across Europe and Japan.
Among the awards won by the artistic talent of the Portuguese pianist are the first prize at the International Beethoven Competition (1970), the International Music Council Award, part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO, 1970), and the Pessoa Prize (1989).
