In a new statement, he apologised for the “distress” he had caused.

“I am taking a step back.. to get the specialist help I recognise that I have needed for some time,” he said.

“I want to apologise to colleagues who have felt badly treated and anyone who may feel let down by my decision to take time out to address my issues.

Sir John instantly flew home to the UK, with representatives blaming the 80-year-old’s outburst on a mixture of extreme heat and new medication.

In a statement at the time, Sir John said: “I know that physical violence is never acceptable and that musicians should always feel safe.

“I ask for your patience and understanding as I take time to reflect on my actions.”

He established prestigious ensembles including the Monteverdi Choir, the English Baroque Soloists and the Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique, and has conducted many of the world’s leading orchestras, including the Berlin Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra and Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Many of his recordings are considered classics – including his complete Beethoven Symphonies, and a live recording of Bach’s St John’s Passion – and his 2013 book Bach: Music in the Castle of Heaven, was well received by critics.