Leonard Bernstein
Leonard Bernstein: A Life of Music, Passion, and Influence
===========================================================
Full Name and Common Aliases
--------------------------------
Leonard Bernstein was born on August 25, 1918, in Lawrence, Massachusetts. His full name was Leonard Moise Berstein, but he is commonly referred to as Lenny or Maestro.
Birth and Death Dates
-------------------------
Born: August 25, 1918
Died: October 14, 1990
Nationality and Profession(s)
---------------------------------
Leonard Bernstein was an American composer, conductor, pianist, music lecturer, author, poet, and humanitarian. He was a prominent figure in the world of classical music and played a significant role in popularizing it.
Early Life and Background
-------------------------------
Bernstein's family was Jewish, and his father, Samuel Berstein, was a Russian immigrant who owned a small dry goods business. His mother, Jessie (Loeb) Bernstein, was a pianist and encouraged her children to pursue music from an early age. Leonard began taking piano lessons at the age of 7 and demonstrated exceptional talent.
He attended Boston Latin School and later entered Harvard University in 1935, where he studied social science but eventually switched to music theory. At Harvard, Bernstein met Aaron Copland, who became a mentor and friend. He also joined the Cambridge Orchestra and began conducting.
Major Accomplishments
---------------------------
Bernstein's career was marked by numerous accomplishments, including:
Conducting the New York Philharmonic from 1958 until his death in 1990
Composing famous works such as "West Side Story," "Candide," and "Mass"
Writing books on music theory and history, including "The Joy of Music" and "Findings"
Recording over 200 albums with the New York Philharmonic
Notable Works or Actions
-----------------------------
Some of Bernstein's most notable works include:
West Side Story (1957): A musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet set in New York City, featuring music by Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
Candide (1956): An operetta with a libretto by Lillian Hellman and lyrics by Richard Wilbur, based on the novella by Voltaire.
* Mass (1971): A large-scale work for chorus, orchestra, and soloists that explores themes of faith, doubt, and redemption.
Bernstein was also known for his advocacy for social justice and civil rights. He supported various charitable organizations and used his platform to raise awareness about important issues.
Impact and Legacy
-------------------------
Leonard Bernstein's impact on classical music and popular culture is immeasurable. He helped bridge the gap between high art and mass entertainment, making classical music more accessible to a wider audience. His innovative approach to conducting and composing influenced generations of musicians and composers.
Bernstein's legacy extends beyond his music as well. He was a true renaissance man – a passionate teacher, writer, and advocate for social justice. Through his work, he continues to inspire and educate people around the world.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
--------------------------------------------
Leonard Bernstein is widely quoted and remembered for his insightful writings on music and life. His books, lectures, and interviews offer a unique perspective on the importance of art in society. Many of his quotes are still shared today, serving as reminders of the power of music to bring people together and transcend borders.
In conclusion, Leonard Bernstein was a true master of his craft – a brilliant composer, conductor, pianist, and teacher who left an indelible mark on classical music and popular culture. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, composers, and audiences alike.
Quotes by Leonard Bernstein
Leonard Bernstein's insights on:
I’m not interested in having an orchestra sound like itself. I want it to sound like the composer.
There are two ways to think about all this. One way is that life is absurd to start with and that only a mad man goes out and tries to change the world, to fight for good and against evil. The other way is that life is indeed absurd to start with and that it can be given meaning only if you live it for your ideals, visions and poetic truths, and despite all the skepticism of all the Sancho Panzas’ in the world, saddle up whatever worn out horse you’ve got and go after those visions.
Mozart’s music is constantly escaping from its frame, because it cannot be contained in it.
Wine snobbery, of course, is part showmanship, part sophistication, part knowledge, and part bluff.
From New Year’s on the outlook brightens; good humor lost in a mood of failure returns. I resolve to stop complaining.
The second fiddle. I can get plenty of first violinists, but to find someone who can play the second fiddle with enthusiasm.
Two things are necessary for great achievement: a plan and not quite enough time.
I’m no longer quite sure what the question is, but I do know that the answer is Yes.