Customer Reviews

Leonard Bernstein: The Gift of Music

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This 1993 95 minute documentary with no supplemental material is superficial and overly laudatory in comparison to the 1998 117 minute plus 39 supplemental minute American Masters DVD documentary, Leonard Bernstein: Reaching for the Note. The 2 pages of printed program notes, compared with no program notes for the PBS DVD, is no compensation. This documentary does include information and video materials about Bernstein, so it is not worthless. And it is cheaper. But if you have the PBS DVD you don't need this one.

I own both this DVD and the PBS "Reaching for the Note" referenced by others here. It is true that one should start with the PBS DVD for a more thorough look at his life, trials, tribulations and triumphs. But this disc then becomes a great companion. It is mostly just Bernstein talking. It lets him explain himself. Lengthy excerpts from interviews, recording sessions and student teaching exercises make this a great way to have a closer idea what it was like to just be around him. I do recommend it.

This documentary on Leonard Bernstein is an outstanding compilation of extraordinary footage on the life of this genius. I own several documentaries on Bernstein in my own library, all of which are deeply moving and informative- but none as complete and extraordinary as this one. The footage ranges from his conducting orchestras all over the world, speaking fluently in German, Russian, Hebrew, etc. to members of the orchestra; to his travels; his love for family; relationships with some of the greatest composers and conductors and musicians of our time- to his undeniable lust for life and everything around him! It is a powerful reminder of a brilliant life. Bernstein's passion for creating and absorbing beauty, art, music and everything around him is perfectly assembled in this brilliant dvd. A must have!

As every Bernstein video or performance, I found this DVD very amusing and most inspiring.