Discovering Leonard Bernstein: A Prelude to 'Maestro' on Netflix

Are you as thrilled as we are about Netflix's upcoming biopic, 'Maestro,' featuring Bradley Cooper as Leonard Bernstein? Variety shares that “Cooper Spent Six Years Learning to Conduct Six Minutes of Music So He Could Film It Live on 'Maestro' Set.” Cooper said, “I Was Absolutely Terrified!” Can you imagine?? 

From an early age, Cooper (the director and star of Maestro) was captivated by Bernstein's work from a young age. In the film's production notes, Cooper revealed that Bernstein's recordings were a constant presence in his household, playing on repeat as he grew up.

So, before you dive into this cinematic journey that Cooper has worked tirelessly to create, we've curated a handful of fascinating facts about Bernstein to elevate your movie-watching experience. Who is he? And why did Cooper want to create this film so badly? 

Scroll down to discover five intriguing aspects of Leonard Bernstein’s life and to find out why his career was so monumental on and off stage. And not to worry… no spoiler alerts! We promise.

1. Bernstein was one of the most versatile composers of his time:

• Leonard Bernstein was a musical virtuoso, seamlessly navigating the diverse landscapes of classical and popular music. His compositions, ranging from symphonies and operas to ballets and chamber music, showcased an unparalleled versatility. Notably, Bernstein made an indelible mark on Broadway with the unforgettable classic "West Side Story," cementing his status as one of the most influential composers of his era.

2. He was the youngest conductor at the New York Philharmonic:

• In 1958, at a youthful 40, Bernstein took the helm as the conductor of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, earning the distinction of being its youngest conductor. His tenure, which continued until 1969, not only demonstrated his prodigious talent but also left an enduring impact on the classical music scene in the United States.

3. Bernstein wasn’t just a Composer and Conductor, he was also an Educator and TV Personality:

• Beyond the stage and the conductor's podium, Bernstein was a passionate educator. His CBS series, "Young People's Concerts" (1958-1972), transcended age barriers, bringing the beauty and complexity of classical music into the living rooms of audiences nationwide. Through these televised lectures, Bernstein demystified classical music, reaching a diverse audience, including children.

4. He played a key role in the creation of "West Side Story" on Broadway:

• Leonard Bernstein played a crucial role in the creation of "West Side Story." He was the composer of the music for the musical, collaborating with choreographer Jerome Robbins, lyricist Stephen Sondheim, and writer Arthur Laurents. The musical, which premiered on Broadway in 1957, is a modern retelling of William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" set in the context of New York City gang rivalry.

• Bernstein's music for "West Side Story" is celebrated for its innovative fusion of classical, jazz, and Latin musical elements. His compositions, including iconic songs like "Maria" and "Tonight," contributed significantly to the emotional depth and impact of the musical. Bernstein's involvement in "West Side Story" is a testament to his versatility as a composer, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles to create a groundbreaking and enduring work of musical theater.

5. Bernstein was known for his Political Activism:

• Bernstein's dedication to political activism wasn't just words; he turned his convictions into powerful actions. A defining moment took place in 1971 when he conducted Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 in East Berlin. Demonstrating profound solidarity with those yearning for freedom, Bernstein altered the final word, "Freude" ("joy"), to "Freiheit" ("freedom").

• This symbolic act echoed beyond the concert hall, resonating as a testament to the profound impact art and music can have in advocating for social and political change. Bernstein's artistry went beyond notes and melodies—it became a voice for the silenced and a beacon for those who sought a world defined by freedom and justice.

Click above to watch some of the behind-the-scenes moments of Bradley Cooper's training to conduct for “Maestro”

Don't miss out on the captivating journey of Leonard Bernstein's extraordinary life and monumental career! Mark your calendar for December 20, 2023, as "Maestro" becomes available on Netflix.

Beyond the awe-inspiring compositions and the dedication to education and activism, Bernstein's legacy is a timeless wellspring of inspiration for music enthusiasts and art lovers. Trust us, you're in for a treat with this one-of-a-kind biopic! We can’t wait to hear what you think…!