"After much thought, I have asked Carnegie Hall for permission to postpone my recital on March 2, 2006 to a future season," she said. "I have sung very few recitals in my career, and I do not feel artistically ready yet to present a recital program on the great stage of Carnegie Hall."

"I know that with more recital experience this will change, and I feel a strong responsibility to present only my very best at this great concert hall and to the New York public," she added. "I apologize for any inconvenience that this has caused to Carnegie Hall and to those who had planned to attend this recital. I promise to see you soon on the stage of Carnegie Hall!"

Netrebko was to perform a program of Russian songs with pianist Malcolm Martineau.

All ticket holders will receive refunds. Those who purchased their tickets at the Carnegie Hall box office should return for a refund; all others will receive refunds automatically.