Robert Levin (musicologist)

Robert Levin (born August 13, 1947) is an American classical pianist, musicologist, composer, and theorist, known especially for his expertise in the music of Mozart and Beethoven.

Levin is particularly renowned for his improvisations, especially in the style of the Classical period. He often performs Mozart concertos, for example, improvising the cadenzas and lead-ins, following the historical practice of the time. He also improvises complete pieces and variations in public concerts.

Levin's musicological work centers on issues of performance practice and the completion of unfinished works, particularly by Mozart. He has completed numerous fragments and unfinished compositions by Mozart, including the Requiem, the C Minor Mass, and various piano concertos. These completions are often based on his extensive knowledge of Mozart's compositional style and surviving sketches. He is also a strong advocate for historically informed performance practice.

Levin studied with Nadia Boulanger and Robert Casadesus. He has held teaching positions at various institutions, including the Hochschule für Musik Freiburg, and Harvard University, where he is currently a Professor Emeritus. He is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

His performances and recordings, often on period instruments, have been widely praised for their insight and stylistic authenticity. He has recorded extensively for labels such as Deutsche Grammophon and ECM New Series.