Leonard Bernstein was one of the most influential American composers of the 20th century. He was born in 1918 in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and began studying piano at the age of 10. When he was just 16, he enrolled at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia.
Bernstein’s first major professional break came in 1943, when he was asked to substitute for the conductor of the New York Philharmonic. His exceptional skills were recognised and he was soon appointed the orchestra’s Music Director, a post he held for 11 years. In that time, he helped to bring classical music to a wider audience through his innovative programming and his highly acclaimed Young People’s Concerts.
Bernstein composed music in a wide range of styles, from the jazz-influenced West Side Story to the classical symphonies Symphony No. 1 (“Jeremiah”) and Symphony No. 3 (“Kaddish”). He also wrote the score for the film On the Waterfront, for which he won an Academy Award.
In addition to his work as a composer, Bernstein was also an acclaimed conductor and educator. He led some of the world’s most prestigious orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Vienna Philharmonic. He was also a passionate advocate for music education, and he founded the Bernstein Education Through the Arts Fund to provide arts education for underserved children.
Leonard Bernstein died in 1990 at the age of 72. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world.
Backing Tracks – Glitter And Be Gay … New York New York … West Side Story
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