James Levine denies, accusers persist

The former music director of the Metropolitan Opera issued a denial through the New York Times on Thursday of allegations that he abused his power to seduce young men.

Levine said:

‘As understandably troubling as the accusations noted in recent press accounts are, they are unfounded. As anyone who truly knows me will attest, I have not lived my life as an oppressor or an aggressor.

‘I have devoted my energies to the development, growth, and nurturing of music and musicians all over the world — particularly with the Metropolitan Opera where my work has been the lifeblood and passion of my artistic imagination. My fervent hope is that in time people will come to understand the truth, and I will be able to continue my work with full concentration and inspiration.’

One of his accusers told the Times: ‘He is lying’.

The Met says its investigation is ongoing.

In Illinois, police have said they will not prosecute allegations made by Ashok Pai, another accuser. This is no more than they told Pai are the time he made the deposition.