Bruno de Sá has released a statement following his canceled concert in Turkey and the speculation that it was due to homophobia.

In a video message, the male soprano said, “My dear friends, I want to share a few words after the unexpected cancellation of my concert in Ankara. I was deeply moved by your messages and support. Please know how much I love you and how much I look forward to coming back soon to sing for you. This moment only strengthens my commitment to sharing music, truth, and beauty with you all. I’m also very excited to soon unveil ‘Uyaras,’ a new project born from my heart, which I can’t wait to share with you. With all my love, Bruno.”

The singer also noted that throughout his entire life he has faced homophobia but was grateful for all the messages he had received.

De Sá was set to perform with the Presidential Symphony Orchestra of Turkey  on Feb. 19 in Gala Concert that was canceled with no explanation. Shortly after reports started speculating that the decision was over the country’s tightening restrictions on LGBTQ+ visibility in public cultural life.

De Sá is a recognized singer who has performed at the Theater Basel, Opéra de Montpellier, and Whitsun Festival in Salzburg. He is an exclusive artist of Erato / Warner Classics.