Leonard Bernstein: Reaching for the Note – In honor of Leonard Bernstein's 80th birthday.

Synopsis

When Leonard Bernstein died in 1990 at the age of 72, music lovers the world over mourned the loss of one of the 20th century's artistic giants. In addition to his role as conductor, composer, educator and performing artist, Bernstein was one of the early pioneers in bringing the arts to television. As such, he became one of the most internationally recognized musical personalities in the world. Yet in spite of the existence of vast quantities of visual material, the two-hour film "The Infinite Variety of Leonard Bernstein" is the first full-scale biographical film portrait of the musician. The spine of the film is Bernstein's own narrative. Supplementing this are recollections from friends, family, artistic collaborators and others who provide a historically critical perspective on his work and career. An equally important element is the integration of Bernstein's compositions throughout the film. Through his television specials as an educator, as well as through the orchestral works he conducted for television, the film also provides a rich, varied and insightful reflection on Bernstein's music-making.

Additional Info

• No: A05507791
• Conductor: Leonard Bernstein
• Production year: 1998
• Run time: 02:00:00
• Director: Susan Lacy
• Producers: Unitel
• Format: Normal