The D.C.-based National Symphony Orchestra announced that it cancelled its performances in China scheduled for March because of health concerns relating to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
The group had originally planned on playing two concerts in the Chinese capital, Beijing (March 13 and 14), and one in Shanghai (March 17) as part of a 10-day tour of the country and Japan.
The announcement came on February 4, following travel warnings issued by the Trump administration, which declared a public health emergency over the spread of the coronavirus.
As part of new measures, incoming flights from China are now re-routed to one of 11 airports in order to strictly conduct required screenings on travelers. Dulles International Airport is one of them.
“Between these logistical developments and the fact that our top priority is the health and well-being of our musicians and artists, it became clear to the NSO that its visit to China would not be possible,” said NSO executive director Gary Ginstling, according to the Associated Press.
The orchestra is keeping the Japan leg of the tour as scheduled. There will be a concert in Hiroshima, as well, to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The Boston Symphony Orchestra made a similar cancellation last week, scrapping its Asia tour, including the Chinese city of Shanghai, that was supposed to take place this month.
Currently, the DMV area does not have any confirmed cases of coronavirus infection.