Friday, June 1, 2012

James Levine: America's Maestro

James Levine has been the conductor for the Metropolitan Opera for over 40 years where he has transformed the establishment to its current status, while keeping to a rigorous regiment overseeing some of the top works in opera today. "America's Maestro" is a rare and exclusive look into the brilliant master's life as he, in spite of chronic back pain, prepares for his latest performance and takes part in his mentoring program for young, struggling singers. This recent entry into the "American Masters" canon is a fascinating profile look at an endlessly talented man, from his early tutelage under George Szell, director of the Cleveland Orchestra, to his transformation of the Met at the ripe young age of 28, where he has remained until this day. Levine's spirit and talent is demonstrated clearly on the screen, and this wonderful documentary is a testament to them.