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Young Leonard Bernstein: The Making of an American Maestro

Ashton Reed

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Published in Music Was IT: Young Leonard Bernstein

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Leonard Bernstein was one of the most celebrated and influential conductors, composers, and educators of the 20th century. His charismatic personality, innovative programming, and commitment to music education made him a beloved figure to audiences around the world.

Music Was IT: Young Leonard Bernstein

by Susan Goldman Rubin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	28835 KB
Print length	:	192 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Hardcover	:	255 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	6 x 8.5 inches

But how did Bernstein become the maestro we know and love? What were the experiences and influences that shaped his musical journey? The answers to these questions can be found in Young Leonard Bernstein: The Making of an American Maestro, a captivating biography by Humphrey Burton.

Young Leonard Bernstein At The Piano Music Was IT: Young Leonard Bernstein

Burton traces Bernstein's life from his childhood in Boston to his early career as a conductor and composer. He draws on unpublished letters, diaries, and interviews to create an intimate portrait of a young man with an extraordinary talent and an unyielding determination to succeed.

We learn about Bernstein's early musical influences, including his love of jazz and Broadway musicals. We witness his first conducting experiences and his struggles to find his own voice as a composer.

But Burton also shows us the personal side of Bernstein. He writes about Bernstein's close relationships with his family and friends, his struggles with depression, and his lifelong commitment to social justice.

The result is a rich and nuanced portrait of a complex and fascinating figure. Young Leonard Bernstein: The Making of an American Maestro is an essential read for anyone interested in music, biography, or American history.

Praise for Young Leonard Bernstein

"A fascinating and illuminating portrait of a musical giant." —The New York Times

"Burton has written a definitive biography of Bernstein's early years. ... A must-read for anyone interested in music or American culture." —The Boston Globe

"This book is a treasure. It captures the essence of Leonard Bernstein and his extraordinary journey." —Leonard Slatkin, conductor