Bernstein and Jazz
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Leonard Bernstein, one of the most respected Jazz musicians of his time, contributed a lot to the development of modern day jazz. According to the New American Webster Handy College Dictionary, the definition of jazz is, (1. Dance music in a syncopated style..." Syncopation occurs when typically unaccented beats are accented.) (Emphasis of the wrong syl-la-ble.) When we think of jazz, we usally think of the music of black musician from New Orleans and not white classical trained conductors for Massachusetts (Bernstein's home-state). Actually, in the 1950's Bernstein was embarrassed to be associated with jazz because the public thought it was for the lower classes of society. Yet, in the late 50's, Bernstein had the pleasure of conducting such jazz bands and orchestra as: The Lewisohn Stadium Orchestra, the Louis Armstrong Ensemble, the Dave Brubeck Orchestra, and even played one of the greatest jazz composition, Take the "A" train, with one of the greatest and most respected jazz band leaders, Duke Ellington. | |
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Although Leonard Bernstein loved jazz and was quite accomplished in playing and composing jazz, he is not thought of as one of the "greats." He would not be listed with Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington of the Gershwin brothers. There is a quote from the archives of the Philharmonic that best describes Bernstein's relationship with jazz: "Despite his deep ties to jazz, Bernstein has never been considered a jazzman by jazzmen and if he considered himself a jazzman, than he would be playing jazz for the public much more than he already does." Two of Bernstein's most famous compositions that incorporate some elements of jazz are West Side Story and On the Town. Both explore the possibilities of jazz composition and show Bernstein's capabilities as a jazz composer. Leonard Bernstein will be remembered for much in music: his classical compositions, being the conductor of the NY Philharmonic and his Young People's Concerts, explaining classical music to children. In addition, he will be remembered for his contributions to jazz -- his playing his conducting and his composing.
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