André Rieu Shocked by Earthquake in Christchurch

MAASTRICHT, Netherlands, February 23, 2011 - André Rieu reacted with horror this morning to the news about the
earthquake in Christchurch. The Dutch violinist and conductor is currently
rehearsing at his studio in Maastricht, for his upcoming tour of South
Africa.

"I was really shocked when I heard the news and saw the first images on
television. What terrible destruction. And the number of victims. It's really
awful. The thoughts of my whole family, and the entire orchestra, are with
the victims and the survivors. Everyone hopes never to have to go through
something like this"

A tour has been scheduled for Australia and New Zealand in May. This
includes a concert in Christchurch. However, André says it is much too early
to decide whether the concert there can go ahead as planned.

"That's not something I'm thinking about right now. That's something for
a later stage. The most important thing is caring for the victims and the
clearing of the enormous devastation. Whether or not concerts can go ahead is
not important right now. My thoughts go out to the inhabitants of
Christchurch" André Rieu says.

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CONTACT: For press information please contact Kerstin Cornelis, André
Rieu Productions E: pr@andrerieugroup.com

CONTACT: For press information please contact Kerstin Cornelis, André
Rieu Productions E: pr at andrerieugroup.com