(Credit: Bernd Uhlig)

In a new interview, Jonas Kaufmann is speaking out against the Anna Netrebko boycotts.

Speaking with Blick ahead of his concert in Lucerne at the KKL, where Netrebko’s concert was canceled, Kaufmann said the bans were “short-sighted.” He also praised the soprano, stating, ” She is undisputedly one of the most talented artists we have. And it is simply too short-sighted if we allow such artists to disappear from our schedules. You can’t freeze yourself and unfreeze yourself in 20 years to continue your career.”

Kaufmann also implied that there has been a double standard with the diva when asked about the recent cancellation of her concerts due to the War in Ukraine. He said, “We have never had such a conflict in which artists – regardless of their background – were asked to show their colors so often. I dare say that in earlier times they would have been left alone.”

The tenor also noted that Netrebko has lived in Austria for many years and still has relatives in Russia. He added, “She may not have behaved ideally in the past. But no matter what she does now, she is unwanted in the West and persona non grata in Russia.”

Kaufmann did note that music is a unifying and connecting force.

Netrebko’s KKL concert was canceled in May after the soprano condemned the war on multiple occasions nearly two years ago with the theater noting, “The KKL Lucerne is not available for Anna Netrebko’s concert on June 1, 2024. Public perception of the soloist remains controversial.”

Her management responded stating the concert was on sale for over a year and noted that Netrebko will return to Zurich in 2025.

Kaufmann and Netrebko’s collaborations date back to 2008 when they did “La Traviata” at the Royal Opera House. They later collaborated on productions of “La Forza del Destino,” “Aida” and recently “La Gioconda.” They have also performed in concerts and concert performances of “Tosca.” They will celebrate Puccini on Nov. 29 at the Teatro alla Scala and will sing “La Forza del Destino” to open the Milan season.

You can read the entire interview here.