During his life, Leonard Bernstein, the charismatic composer, conductor, educator, lecturer and pianist was the quintessential American ambassador, icon and symbol of classical music. His innovative television programs, the Young People’s Concerts, exuded brilliance, clarity, enthusiasm and sophistication, and captivated children and adults alike. He not only embraced classical and popular music but humanitarian causes.
2008 is a noteworthy year in his chronology since it is the 90th anniversary of his birth and the 50th anniversary of his appointment as the music director of the New York Philharmonic. Carnegie Hall and the Philharmonic will celebrate his life and music from September 24 to December 13, 2008 with more than 30 events, Including concerts, film screenings, musical theater, and panel discussions.
In recognition of these facts, Burton Bernstein, former New Yorker staff writer and brother of Leonard Bernstein and Barbara Haws, the historian and archivist of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, will appear at the Library on Monday, September 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. to discuss their new book Leonard Bernstein: American Original, How a Modern Renaissance Man Transformed Music and the World During his New York Philharmonic Years, 1943–1976. This work examines Bernstein’s landmark achievements and activities through the prism of New York City's culture during the years 1943 to 1976.
For those who wish to familiarize themselves with his life, the Library has Humphrey Burton's Leonard Bernstein, John Gruen's The Private World of Leonard Bernstein, etc. The Library has numerous recordings of his compositions and his conducting endeavors with various orchestras.