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CECIL TAYLOR performances and masterclass cancelled due to ill health

American jazz pianist Cecil Taylor has suspended all international travel plans indefinitely due to an aggravated, ongoing medical condition. As a result, his Australian engagements as part of the Melbourne International Jazz Festival have sadly been cancelled. Tony Oxley who was performing with Cecil will now no longer be coming to Australia.

"This is a grave disappointment to Cecil whose 80th Birthday Celebration year was to be marked by concerts on six continents.  Cecil has prepared new compositions that were to be debuted at the Festival and poetry that celebrated Melbourne's inclusion as a UNESCO City of Literature.  Cecil looks forward to a full recovery and the opportunity to perform at the Melbourne International Jazz Festival in 2010" advised Taylor's management.

Program Director Sophie Brous said "We are sad to hear Cecil is not in good health. The opportunity to see an artist of his significance in Australia for the first time in decades was something we were looking forward to immensely.  The Festival Board and management wish Cecil a speedy recovery and hope to see him in Melbourne in future years when his health improves."

Cecil Taylor ticket refund/exchange/special offer:

The Festival is offering ticket holders for the concert Cecil Taylor (USA) with Tony Oxley (UK) the opportunity to exchange their tickets for another concert at Melbourne Recital Centre and the offer of a complimentary ticket to attend select Melbourne International Jazz Festival concert at The Forum - subject to availability.

The Festival is offering ticket holders for the CECIL TAYLOR MASTERCLASS (USA) and THE POETRY OF CECIL TAYLOR (USA) the opportunity to exchange tickets for other events at BMW Edge.

For full refund/exchange ticket offers visit the Festival website:  www.melbournejazz.com/