Say a prayer for Seiji

Seiji Ozawa, one of the great conductors, has cancer::

TOKYO — Former Boston Symphony Orchestra music director Seiji Ozawa says he has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer.

Ozawa, an icon in the classical music world, said the cancer was spotted following a regular medical checkup late last year.

"I am perfectly fine right now. I have no problems in drinking and eating," the 74-year-old maestro said at a news conference in Tokyo. A doctor who accompanied Ozawa at the news conference said the cancer is in an early stage.

Ozawa will cancel all his concerts from January to June to undergo cancer treatment. His office said there are around 30 concerts at home and abroad scheduled during the six months.