Renowned Spanish conductor Juanjo Mena has publicly disclosed his diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
In a video statement shared on X, Mena revealed: “After many months of thorough tests, the doctors have diagnosed that I have Alzheimer’s disease. My symptoms are typical of an early stage of the disease.”
Despite this news, Mena emphasized his commitment to continue working, explaining, “That has not prevented me from working, and since September, I have been with the Berlin Philharmonic, in Baltimore, Venice. I have conducted the Basque National Orchestra.”
He likened his diagnosis to tackling a difficult musical composition: “I have conducted many complex scores in my life, and the score I’m working with now is surely the most difficult of all.”
Mena expressed gratitude for the support of his family, friends, and doctors, as well as the role of music in his life. “I have so much strength and energy to carry on, and above all, I have an advantage in my favour: music. It is my passion and the engine that, now more than ever, activates my brain and makes me work better,” he said. He added that music and family will serve as his “best therapy” as he navigates this new chapter.
Born in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, Mena began his career as the artistic director of the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra in 1999. His subsequent roles included Principal Conductor of the Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra and Chief Conductor of the BBC Philharmonic, where he served for seven seasons. Over the years, Mena has worked with orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. In North America, he has conducted the Chicago Symphony and the Boston Symphony, among others.
In his statement, Mena reassured his audience that he plans to balance his work with necessary rest. “I will continue working, but I will also rest more, which will be beneficial for me,” he said. His message concluded with hope: “I will work as hard as I can, so that we can continue to see each other in concert halls. That is my goal, and that is my hope.”
The classical music community has already begun expressing support for Mena, with many applauding his openness and determination.
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