Dutch violinist and composer Andre Rieu has cancelled a promotional trip to Australia after falling sick.

The 63 year old had planned to jet Down Under next week (beg06May13) to promote his latest album in Sydney and Melbourne, but he has now been ordered to stay at home to recover from a mystery illness.

In a statement, he says, "Australia is like my second home... I am so very disappointed that I am unable to visit my wonderful fans in Sydney and Melbourne as promised. I am resting on doctor's orders, and looking forward to seeing you all very soon."

Rieu, who is due to tour in Australia later this year (13), previously scrapped concerts in the country in 2010 after he was struck down with a viral infection.