Leonard Bernstein

Rating:
Summary: "Leonard Bernstein" - not just a West Side Story
Review: This brief biography of the life of Leonard Bernstein captivated me. I am very familiar with the music of Bernstein, but never got to know him the way my parent's generation did.

Bernstein was ever in the forefront of music both popular, and classical. His "Young People's Concerts" made him, and a great deal of classical music, a houshold name. I was too young to enjoy these, however they are now being re-broadcast on cable television for a whole new generation to enjoy.

Although I was captivated by the music of Bernstein long before I ever read this chronology, I understand the music of Bernstein much better now. It is interesting to look at this life from several perspectives- Bernstein as conductor, Bernstein as composer, Bernstein as father, Bernstein as husband. Most interesting is the fact that Bernstein spent his whole life in search of creating the "flagship" compostion that would secure his place in the books.

Meyers has done a fine job at relaying the "self-illustrated" life of Bernstein. It is an honest book, too, detailing Bernstein's affairs, and tantrums.

Meyers shows us an amazing composer, a respected conductor, and a very colorful reflection of 20th century America via the life of Leonard Bernstein.