The great conductor
Leonard
Bernstein
When?
August 25 1918
October 14 1990, age 72
Where?
Massachusetts, USA
Bernstein was a
Modern
composer.
Leonard Bernstein did so many things well, it’s hard to know what to call him. He was an amazing composer, pianist and teacher. And conducting the orchestra, he moved around to the music like a dancer.
Bernstein got his big break in an amazing way. When the conductor of a famous orchestra got sick, they asked Bernstein to step in and conduct without any rehearsal!
Bernstein got his big break in an amazing way. When the usual conductor of a famous orchestra got sick, they asked Bernstein to step in and conduct without any rehearsal! Leonard was nervous, but the night was a huge success. The next morning, Leonard Bernstein’s picture was in the New York Times newspaper. You never know when you may have to take up the baton!
Bernstein was a classical composer who also incorporated jazz and pop styles. He also wrote music for Broadway musicals, like “West Side Story” and “Candide,” and films like “On the Waterfront.”
The night was a huge success and by morning, he was famous. It pays to be prepared. You never know when you may have to take up the baton!
Fun Facts
Both Maestros
What the Heck is a TV?
Bernstein wrote and narrated a television show called “Young People’s Concerts” to help kids understand classical music (By the way, television is a thing people watched before YouTube!). It was so popular, it played in over 40 countries!
Both Maestros
Smart Alec
Bernstein entered Harvard University when he was only sixteen years old!
Both Maestros
Tear Down That Wall!
Years ago, the city of Berlin was split in two by a big wall. When the wall finally came down, the citizens were very happy. To celebrate, Leonard Bernstein stood near the wall and conducted a performance of Beethoven's 9th symphony. People all over the world listened and music brought everyone together.
