Conductor charged with molestation cancels UK concerts

Russian conductor Mikhail Pletnev has pulled out of his performances in the UK after being accused of child molestation in Thailand.

Pianist and conductor Pletnev has cancelled his performance at the annual BBC Proms and has also refused to conduct the Russian National Orchestra in Edinburgh.

Pletnev himself said he did not want to darken the event with his presence in Scotland or in the Royal Albert Hall in London

Pletnev was due to perform together with the Russian National Orchestra in London on August 18 and in Edinburgh on August 19. Conductor Andrey Boreiko will replace Pletnev at the concerts.

The founder and artistic director of the Russian National Orchestra was charged last month with molesting a 14-year-old boy. After raiding Pletnev’s home, Thai police found incriminating photographs.

The conductor has been released on bail and pledged to show up at court sessions every 12 days. The last session took place on Friday, July 30.