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Silence from Yannick over James Levine

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norman lebrecht

March 18, 2021

In contrast to his usual media-friendly responses, there has been no comment from Yannick Nézet-Séguin on the death of his predecessor James Levine.

Nothing, either, from Valery Gergiev, who is Levine’s successor at the Munich Philharmonic. Or Andris Nelsons, his heir at the Boston Symphony.

The ego of maestros is egotistic.

We have seen one beautiful tribute. It’s from Donald Runnicles, Generalmusikdirektor of Deutsche Oper Berlin:

I cannot find the words to express adequately my sense of loss with the passing of Jimmy. The North Star of my journey as young conductor, all I ever wanted to do was to emulate this glorious and generous musician. From James Levine I endeavored to learn the lessons addressed in no conducting manual – Levine the master psychologist in rehearsals, who through endless optimism and constructive criticism drew consistently the best performances from singers and orchestras alike – indeed, often better than the artists believed themselves capable. At a crucial crossroads in my young career, James Levine in his incomparable musical brilliance and mentorship changed my life. I would not be where I am without his inspiration. The disturbing controversy which engulfed him in later years is as painful as it is tragic – I will nevertheless always owe a profound debt of gratitude to this phenomenal and eternally youthful conductor.I will always miss Jimmy. In my memory and daily musical life, this giant will live on.

UPDATE: Here’s Placido Domingo:

Dear Jimmy … almost 47 years went by between the first time I had the privilege of working with you (TOSCA, San Francisco, 22 November 1970) and our last appearance together, the (Met Opera Gala to celebrate the company’s 50th Anniversary at Lincoln Center, 7 May 2017). We performed together in well over 400 performances, most of them at the Met. I sang more opera performances with you than with any other conductor. Even to attempt to convey accurately and describe in words what I personally felt through all of those years is a very difficult task which can only be made harder by the pain that the news of your departure is causing me.

You were a musical genius, an outstanding conductor, and a supportive colleague, with an amazing sense of humor. Always sure and in command but always willing to listen and to share ideas with your colleagues. You have left us an amazing legacy.

Your over five decades of tireless dedication to music and opera have made an indelible impact that will remain forever embedded in the history books.

I feel as if I had lost a dear brother, and I know that I have lost a dear friend.