Levine To Return To BSO On Opening Night

The Boston Symphony Orchestra is confirming Maestro James Levine will return to the podium at Symphony Hall after months of recuperation from back surgery.

Levine's ongoing back issues forced him to cancel summer appearances at Tanglewood, but the BSO said Tuesday that he is scheduled to lead the orchestra's all-Wagner program on Opening Night next month.

Lloyd Schwartz, classical music editor at the Boston Phoenix, hopes this confirmation will dispel speculation that the BSO is replacing Levine, and says that classical music fans will watch the BSO's opening night with interest.

"It's inevitable that we're going to be at the edges of our seats for more than one reason," Schwartz said, "because we also want to be sure that he is really able to carry on his job."

If all goes as planned, this will be Levine's seventh season with the BSO.