Sellars conceived the staged version of Cantatas Nos. 199 and 92 for Lieberson, and she starred in its world premiere at Lincoln Center during the 2000-01 season. She was to return for three performances on August 7, 9, and 11, accompanied by Emmanuel Music conducted by Craig Smith.
According to a statement from Lincoln Center, the singer's doctors "have advised her to take complete rest due to a lower-back injury sustained early this year."
The performances will not be rescheduled; ticket holders may exchange their tickets, donate them to Lincoln Center, or request a refund.
Lieberson canceled a spring recital tour because of similar problems, and will miss a scheduled appearance in Mahler's Eighth Symphony at Tanglewood on July 8.
