Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein and Benny Goodman in rehearsal

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1943 Nov 14 NYPhil Bernstein

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Leonard Bernstein NYWTS 1945

Bernstein, Leonard (1918-1990) - 1944 - foto van Vechten2

Leonard Bernstein - 1950s

Leonard Bernstein (August 25, 1918 – October 14, 1990) was an American composer, conductor, author, music lecturer, and pianist. He was among the first conductors born and educated in the United States to receive worldwide acclaim. According to music critics and musicians, he was one of the most talented and successful musicians in American history. Bernstein was known for his dynamic and expressive conducting style, which often involved considerable physical movement. He made significant contributions to the world of classical music, including his long tenure as the music director of the New York Philharmonic, from 1958 to 1969, and his role in promoting classical music through television.

Early Life

Leonard Bernstein was born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, to Ukrainian-Jewish parents. He was initially taught piano by his aunt, and despite his family's initial disapproval, his passion for music led him to pursue a career in it. Bernstein attended the Boston Latin School and later, the Harvard University's music program, where he was significantly influenced by the composer Walter Piston. After graduating from Harvard, Bernstein enrolled at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, where he studied conducting, piano, and orchestration.

Career

Bernstein's career took a significant turn in 1943 when he was appointed the assistant conductor of the New York Philharmonic. Due to a sudden illness of the scheduled conductor, Bernstein made his major conducting debut in a nationally broadcast concert. His success led to numerous engagements to conduct orchestras around the country and eventually the world.

In 1957, Bernstein became the music director of the New York Philharmonic, a position he held for 11 years. During his tenure, he became known for his interpretations of a wide range of repertoire, including works by Gustav Mahler, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Igor Stravinsky, as well as American composers such as Aaron Copland and George Gershwin. Bernstein was also a strong advocate for new music and commissioned works from contemporary composers.

Bernstein's contributions to music were not limited to classical; he was also a prolific composer of music for Broadway, including the scores for West Side Story, Candide, and On the Town. His music is characterized by its blend of classical, jazz, and popular music elements.

Television and Education

Bernstein was a pioneer in using television to educate the public about classical music. Starting in the 1950s, he hosted a series of televised lectures for young people titled Young People's Concerts with the New York Philharmonic. These programs were highly influential in bringing classical music to a broader audience.

Personal Life and Legacy

Bernstein was openly bisexual and was married to Chilean actress Felicia Montealegre, with whom he had three children. His commitment to civil rights, peace, and anti-nuclear movements reflected in his public appearances and compositions.

Leonard Bernstein passed away on October 14, 1990, leaving behind a legacy that has had a lasting impact on the world of music. His recordings and compositions continue to be celebrated, and his influence on music education and television remains significant.

Selected Works

• West Side Story (1957)
• Candide (1956)
• On the Town (1944)
• Chichester Psalms (1965)
• Mass (1971)

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Bernstein received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, the Kennedy Center Honors in 1980, and the Léonie Sonning Music Prize in 1965, among others.