Posted September 06, 2011

Continuing back problems have made it necessary for James Levine to step aside for the Fall Season at the Met.

According to the article, he has had to have yet another back surgery.   Fabio Luisi will take over most of the performances of Siegfried.  This announcement also casts a shadow over the planned Boston Symphony Orchestra concerts scheduled in San Francisco – part of a series of guest orchestras who pay tribute to the 100th season of the San Francisco Symphony.  Levine was scheduled to conduct in San Francisco.  Peter Gelb is steadfastly supportive of Levine and will be delighted to welcome him back when he’s ready to resume conductiong.   Below is a link to the New York Times’ press release: 

http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/09/06/james-levine-withdraws-from-met-fall-season/?emc=eta1