I had occasion to discuss Bernstein with someone who had played under him in the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. The stories he told of the depth of his understanding of each instrument and how he coaxed the best performance out of each player are amazing.
I had met him for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath." So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
@SheldonSchorer
I met a friend for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath." So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
All comments from YouTube:
@johnseriousmen9256
There’s a special place in hell for whoever put an ad smack in the middle of this
@poprockahead3924
Absolutely, straight to execution!
@Video7Rose
Amen to that!
@segmentsAndCurves
PAY.
@SpeegBJ
Thanks Tyler.
@hifijohn
cast the devil away with your savior called adblocker.
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@darthstarkiller1912
Just think, 2024 marks the centennial of "Rhapsody in Blue" which is still a masterpiece of modern music. Gershwin was a genius, and Bernstein's conducting and piano playing were out of this world. Incredible performance.
@johnscanlan9335
Amen!!!
@kevinmalone3210
I'll 2nd that!
@David-yw2lv
The Bret "Hitman"Hart of musical compositions,the best there is,the best there was,the best that ever will be.
@terryg0102
So true!
@blind5678
Agreed!
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@jhk5
57 years ago I had the privilege of having my first plane ride. My complimentary earphones started playing this for my 11 year old brain while I was up in the fluffy clouds and blue, blue sky. Life changing.💙
@AnimationNation2004
You know you’re a legend when you can conduct and play piano at the same time
@signorscimmia2624
And without any score
@pilotrtc
Amen to that!
@peggyl2849
@@signorscimmia2624 Yes, I noticed that too - this level of music mastery is not of this earth.
@intuitive7274
Absolutely genius
@enjaygizzle215
Genius doesn't come close to describing this man's acumen.
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@KillaSoda
The man on the clarinet is killing it..... mad respect.
@justindrucker6267
That’s my grandfather, Stanley Drucker! He’s 93 and still playing every day. Thanks for your kind comment, I’ll be sure to pass it along 🙏
@cjrose2684
Amazingness!!! Touches me soul to hear him play so beautifully
@justinye8700
Justin Drucker that’s crazy!
@sandpiper9288
@@justindrucker6267 No way!
@sandpiper9288
@@justindrucker6267 I heard it it played but never that well.
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@michaelkennedy4444
It’s just so American and so New York. A masterpiece.
@victoria87cub
so true
@paolobertorelli9377
It IS New York, for me.
@Tmanaz480
Mandatory Martini.
@hildagertler7736
Where would early American music and Hollywood be without the Jewish talent
@michaelkennedy4444
@@hildagertler7736 Agreed , but be careful, some SJW may find issues with that comment.
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@LyndseyMacPherson
Can you imagine the sheer joy Bernstein feels as he's playing this, with the orchestra right there, at his disposal, like an extension of the piano itself? Would be a magnificence unlike any other felt by ordinary gods and souls. Glorious.
@lisamoag6548
yes, yes I can!
@evamatej694
Completely
@c.a.savage5689
Gershwin's music is glorious. Pure genius.
@garyneidhardt1362
Having heard a variety of arrangements over the years, the Philharmonic adds expression and character beyond what I've heard before.
@violinmke
A genius met a genius in one of the high points of American created music
@ianwhitehead4337
Who's here simply because this is a truly timeless piece of music by a man who was in a class all of his own.
@tyreburster
I just like the tune. I am fortunate enough in that I have seen and heard a live performance by the BBC Concert Orchestra, with Dudley Moore at the piano. A real privilege.
@terrellholmes2726
2.12.2024 I'm here for the one hundredth anniversary of the premiere of this masterpiece.
@melissalysk1039
I put this on to drink my first cup of coffee with!!! ❤
@jeanparke9373
I remember Lenny as if I saw him yesterday - I am turning 100 next year. We are from the same town (Lawrence, MA) and went to the same grammar school for a year. He was not a musical prodigy at that point but seeing him blooming as a legend of the 20th century music was quite mesmerizing.
@jamescohen5200
wow what a piece of history you have lived
@advaithbala3087
It is such an honor to witness a man who has lived through a world war
@PhilMatous
Thanks for this personal memory, Jean.
@chuckdriver7741
Jean Parke - thank you for sharing such a fantastic story. Happy Early Birthday! 🎂 💯‼️
@tomryan3908
THANK YOU FROM EIRE MS.PARKE FOR THIS EXCELLENT PERSONAL INSIGHT 👌👌👌👌👌👌MAY YOU STAY FOREVER YOUNG IN MIND BODY AGUS SPIRIT 🇺🇸🤝🇨🇮🙂🌑🙃🇨🇮🇨🇮💎💚💎🇨🇮🇨🇮✌🐕 P.S.HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO COME!!🥳🥳🥳🎩🧣🎩💎💚💎🐕
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@manateemax5439
Okay. No pressure. Just the clarinet intro to Rhapsody in Blue with Leonard freakin' Bernstein. I got this....
@toddfoster7370
That clarinetist is Stanley Drucker. He was principal clarinetist for the New York Philharmonic for over 40 years. Bernstein called him Junior. Probably one of the few clarinetists in the world who could have looked Bernstein in the face and say I got this
@balancedactguy
I thought the same thing. One wrong note and EVERYONE in the the house would have known it! That's Pressure!
@jean-baptiste6479
I was at s concert once. The clarinettist botched the intro 😐
@balancedactguy
@@jean-baptiste6479 That must have made you and the audience cringe. I wonder if he moved a "Few Chairs Down" after that?
@jean-baptiste6479
@@balancedactguy no, it was a military orchestra in France, they were excellent otherwise and maybe the guy was making it perfect during rehearsals 👍 That same night they played "in the stone" (EWF) perfectly.
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@zuzannawisniewska4464
It is probably one of the greatest pieces of music ever written, and so evocative of 1920s New York. This piece is wonderful...
@fionabartholomew329
Reminds of 50s New York in the movies
@juanarocha8629
He wrote it on a train to Boston
@Whatismusic123
This is absolutely incompetent, by no means "great" and definitely not "greatest".
@haarry2206
@@Whatismusic123 you don't even know what incompetent means lmao
@Whatismusic123
@@haarry2206 yes I do, it's you who does not know what "great" means.
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@TBBrickYT
Now THAT, ladies and gentlemen is the best performance of Rhapsody in Blue EVER!!! ❤🎉❤🎉❤
@maryannangros8834
Yep!
@gerardzimmermann3309
Without a scintilla of doubt whatsoever.
@cpboyce2
Great, yes, but I prefer the original with Gershwin at the piano and the inimitable Paul Whitean on clarinet. PERFECTION https://youtu.be/VxNbAtTMZXc?feature=shared
@kevinmalone3210
Absolutely, Bernstein and his orchestra showed how its done.
@doublelibra357
I hope there is celebration in 2024 when the The Rhapsody turns 100.
@michelangelobuonarroti916
I thought the same.
@eileensattic
I thought the same thing as well!
@stanborg1545
And we will get 45 back.
@lukehauser1182
I'm gonna start celebrating now, just to be on the safe side!
@christopherorourke6543
It would be very appropriate, respectfull & honorable to George Gershwin & those members of his family to do so.
@@indrawanjunaidi5356Haha I heard Tom and Jerry too, but not there😅 they definitely make an appearance in the last section of the Love Theme, from 14:45-15:43. Those are the same notes from the earlier sweeping violin part if you pay attention, but they sound so unlike each other I didn't even notice until today. All I could think about was Tom and Jerry 😂
@lllr179
I just saw this performed tonight by Rami Bar-Niv from Israel, piano solo. Heavenly!
@glennhecker4422
Doesn't 10:40 through about 13:30 almost sound like how this piece would sound if Sergei Rachmaninoff had composed it? It has that same sort of passion and romanticism.
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@judyshnider3006
It’s a tragedy that George Gershwin died so young. “The candle that burns twice as bright, burns half as long”.
@albasardo2266
Che triistezza..a soli 39 anni.. Stessa sorte del compianto Chopin, ed ancor più giovane, il grande Mozart, a soli 35 anni.. 😔
@nancyarnott699
Or maybe vice versa? "The candle that burns half as long burns twice as bright."
@scienceoftbp7367
@@nancyarnott699 I think Rossini composed very few works after age 40, and he lived to 76 so maybe?
@afridgetoofar1818
George who?
@yes1635
@@afridgetoofar1818 George mama
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@dgschwal9776
I first heard this on a recording at my aunt's home when I was 7 years old. I loved it then and at 72 it is still my favorite piece of music.
@ShadowGaming26548
Really ?
@harrietgate
@DG Schwal. Young children are very open and impressionable. I developed a love for West Side Story at about the same age. Looking forward to the remake in early December.
@iggy9955
And my favorite since 12y to 61 y old. Almost 50y and more 20 i hope.😃
@sergiopohlmann8094
Me too
@sergiopohlmann8094
I was 6 years old (1942) when I first heard Rhapsody in blue. It was etched in my memory forever.
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@naufala93
Whenever I hear Rhapsody in Blue, what cames to my mind is New York City in 1920s and 1930s. George Gershwin is great!
@racheldrum1982
I hear the inner voice of a black man who came up to New York during the first Great Migration, between 1900 and 1930, who's just worked another long, hard day. He's bone-tired and missing his boyhood in coastal Louisiana or maybe Georgia.
@nathanieldavis5231
Great music always paints a picture.
@psijicassassin7166
The music reminds of Native American Indians in their reservations reminiscing how their grandfathers were murdered by cowboys.
@SlashinatorZ
What about Fantasia?
@xtbum3339
The United Airline commercials back in the 70's come to my mind 🙂
@sophia-qo7xh
he makes the solo in the beginning look so easy to play on the clarinet.... and the transition from clarinet to trumpet is absolutely flawless
@vol770
It's a trombone
@janelee4494
@@vol770😂
@chongziyueharrychs7864
@@vol770 that is a muted trumpet, not a trombone
@PhantomViper49
@@chongziyueharrychs7864 in the beginning when trombone plays right after clarinet 😂
@GrassWasTakenAgain
@@PhantomViper49he’s not talking abt that
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@jswain2351
You can’t appreciate the genius of Gershwin without the full orchestral presentation of the piece. You can’t appreciate the genius of Bernstein until you watch him perform AND CONDUCT so seamlessly and magnificently. Perfectly complementary to show their extraordinary talents.
@intuitive7274
Absolutely correct
@rebeccadurand1722
❤❤❤❤
@karenshear4169
When I was eleven years old my dad sat me down and asked me to listen to "An outstanding bit of music." Rhapsody in blue. 1964l It is my all time favorite to this day. (Thanks dad!)
@hardingtess42
Bernstein playing and conducting Gershwin's masterwork 'Rhapsody in Blue' - perfection.
@nancydemoss7904
Has anyone ever heard of Gershwin plays Gershwin? He plays his most popular on solo on an upright piano It's pretty cool.
@ParkAvenue34
@hardingtess The entire Bernstein Family was musical a protege. An American Institution.
@sharondexter715
I agree
@barryschwarz
Bernstein was a towering talent, but I don't like his take on the piano solos. Too pompous and aggrandized.
@Ripleycat
And composer!
@pf5658
Simply put, one of the greatest pieces of music ever written.
@lurking0death
And, one of the most original...first American jazz based piece ever and a bombshell in the classical music world. People were blown away by it.
@nitasheehan2704
Without a doubt.
@erikwesterberg7220
My half Jewish father could never listen to Gerswin in public since he broke out in tears. Now 60 years later I finally understand why....
@nitasheehan2704
@@erikwesterberg7220 I love Gershwin.
@erikwesterberg7220
Me too, Nita
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@polaanna4071
I was there that night with my parents and brother. My dad had a tear in his eye...Loved it! He was 3 years old when it was written and it was his first time at a live performance of it. I am now booked to see Marin Alsop conduct it at the Royal Festival Hall in October - wonderful memories! 5:29
@artbagley1406
It's become all to constant that I begin to cry when I "know what's to come." The first notes of Patsy Cline's "Sweet Dreams," beginning measures to Dvorak's "New World Symphony" (No.9), and of course Beethoven's 5th -- turn on my "waterworks." My daughter (now 36) was raised on Disney movies; the one that held my attention longest (to this day) is "The Lion King." Loved its Buddhist "circle of life," everything's interlinked message; but, oh!, the music. My family made the "mistake" (for me) to see a live theatrical performance at our local performing arts center. When the animals charged down the aisles, from the lobby of the theater to the stage, and the magnificent live orchestra belted out the first notes of the overture (Simba's presentation to Mufasa's kingdom) -- I LOST IT! Good thing I brought along a handkerchief, two actually! Magnificence! I'm a sucker for emotional music and stagecraft!
@theimp5901
Jealous LOL ! Hope you enjoyed !
@polaanna4071
@TheImp5901- it was magical. Marin Alsop contemporary version also - I'm so lucky ❤
@patricialesser2332
You were blessed to witness this!
@walterappling6230
It’s not so easy to remember, more than 30 years after his death, how incredibly talented Leonard Bernstein was as a musician.
@barryschwarz
Yes indeed. From classical music to West Side Story, he was extraordinary.
@jpkatz1435
Not was, is!
@kevinmalone3210
@@jpkatz1435Past tense, since he is now deceased.
@michaelodonovan7405
Gershwin in his own words on how he wrote the piece, 'It was on the train, with its steely rhythms, its rattle-ty bang, that is so often so stimulating to a composer – I frequently hear music in the very heart of the noise.... And there I suddenly heard, and even saw on paper – the complete construction of the Rhapsody, from beginning to end. No new themes came to me, but I worked on the thematic material already in my mind and tried to conceive the composition as a whole. I heard it as a sort of musical kaleidoscope of America, of our vast melting pot, of our unduplicated national pep, of our metropolitan madness. By the time I reached Boston I had a definite plot of the piece, as distinguished from its actual substance'. The work was completed within a few weeks.
@jojotamayoayo1709
Truly genius thankful Gershwin was with us on earth if even for a very short while*
@tuxguys
I hope that this account of Gershwin's thought process is accurate, because it's WONDERFUL!
@joelsandler8754
The best medicine to remind people what America is and should always be.
@jamesschoon1074
Even JK Rowling came up with Harry Potter on the train, and Ayn Rand wrote an entire book on how the railways are the life and soul of a nation, in all of these contexts, literally and metaphorically, these transcontinental/national railways represent the diversity of the people and the struggle.
@marktully7755
...unreplicated national pep....
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@billr3640
I am so grateful to have lived in the times when we had superb musicians like Gershwin, Bernstein, Goodman, Sammy Davis, Brubeck, Heifetz, Perlman, and Ellington, and Fitzgerald and Vaughn, and on and on...How lucky I am.
@johndymond1605
Possibly the greatest era to live through.
@valluscott8616
Bill I love your comment.
@darrellsmith3602
I am 78 and it is these type of performances that make me believe I was so very lucky to grow up when I did!
@mikeliles6166
This has to be one of the best Performances of Rhapsody in Blue EVER...Lenny was Outstanding in Every way. What makes this amazing is how he plays the piano. The tempo Lenny uses is UNMATCHED. Others often try to play the music too fast. Lenny is in complete control with his tempo and the Orchestra is completely in SINC. This is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING> There were no computers or synthesizers in 1976. WHAT YOU SEE, IS WHAT YOU GET!!!! PERFECTION!!!
@thelongview4360
I completely agree! So many other musicians totally mess up the tempo. L.B.'s pacing is exquisite! It might even be better than G.G.'s!
@thefuturepast
Exactly how I always felt. Well said.
@theimp5901
Yes , the "notebots" of today won't match this musically. Ever. Yu Ja Wang has the heart to play this ... with Lenny conducting this orchestra.
@johntindel1048
Combine that with being impeccably filmed and recorded...where are the mics?! It all sounds so frigging perfect...
@matthewbartlett3442
It’s amazing how it switches between piano and full orchestra constantly and never seems to lose any power in the transitions
@BonfiglioSergio
Spectacular. A really spectacular performance. Leonard will remain in our hearts forever. Leo, we miss you so much....
@esterbalbi4558
+Sergio Bonfiglio I gree with you!! the best!! so wonderful and magic!!
@BonfiglioSergio
+Ester Balbi this man was a myth, not only one of the greatest composers of the last century, but also one of the greatest directors and a great performer too.. Mother Nature has been prodigal in talents to him.
@BraddBSmith
+Sergio Bonfiglio I think you mean legend, not myth, he DID exist.
@BonfiglioSergio
Ha ha ha... sorry for this language error... you are perfectly right. In Italian you can say the word "myth" referring to someone who was or is existing as a compliment, "so good to become a myth". While the opposite: a "legend" refers to someone or something that is not sure to have existed. Language differences... But we all love Leo, don't we ?
@stevencustadero3093
+Sergio Bonfiglio It is Interesting that more than 1,000 years ago an illiterate Chinese general said the following: you are only truly dead when the living stop remembering you. Bernstein and Gershwin live on!
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@claudiaharris187
I'm sobbing! For the way this country was, or the way we thought it was, and can it ever be in the future for everyone?
@whispersmith
The goal being unreachable is not a reason to stop reaching for it. We are often defined not by achievement, but by struggle
@stephaniestanley8041
I decided today. This will be played in its entirety at my funeral...all 17 plus minutes. Everyone get over it. You'll have to sit through it!
@linlongtin6404
I had it on my dad's funeral cd. It was perfect.
@stephaniestanley8041
@@linlongtin6404 oh Lin. I went to a friend's funeral today. He was only 49. Before going I listened to this and made my decision. Thank you for sharing.
@ascotberks2018
Great idea.
@tirsabril5494
Hopefully with no ads!
@dennispearson9287
I LOVE THE MAGNIFICENCE OF THE FULL ORCHESTRAL VERSION !!!...A Thouroughly American Composer From New York , Being Performed By America's Greatest Conducter , And Orchestra , ( The New York Philharmonic !! ) One Could Not Help But To Believe That Everyone Performing This Piece , Was Actually BORN FOR THIS MOMENT IN TIME !!!..
@psalmtone2008
Los Angeles Phil with him is arguably better...and live to boot...but then again I'm a homer rooting for my home team! :)
@dennispearson9287
@@psalmtone2008 I Ain't Mad At-Cha !!!....
@coosoorlog
Clearly the piano score was not difficult enough, so Bernstein decided to conduct at the same time to make it challenging.
@Jaaassaa
Coos Oorlog Gershwin did this in the actual original performance
@MrDaiseymay
---SO YARBOO AND SUCKS TO HIM
@gregorycook5070
Coos Oorlog Bernstein wouldn't pass off an opportunity to conduct if he to play every single measure of the score
@1969cmp
Coos Oorlog There are, it seems, people who are just too talented.
@maureenyager7316
Coos Oorlog
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@douglasjcox
My favorite piece of music of all time. The blend of European classical music and American jazz. Gorgeous as performed by Bernstein.
@emibethsantana7045
v. v. mllx
@sunkim3116
Queen-queen
@MrDanamp
Mine, too! This piece is what turned me on to classical music at a VERY young age. I still cry every time it gets to the slow theme...
@jimstenhousejr7290
Wendy Arrington
@Andy-ot2vg
Me too, Wendy -- I saw Bernstein perform this live in concert when I was 16, and I still get chills.
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@dawnfarris4233
The finest rendition of this favorite George Gershwin classic. Leonard is playing exactly what George wanted from the pianist- I cant get enough of this. 2x a week whether I need it or not 😊. Such a moving composition. Thank you, Gershwin & thank you Maestro Bernstein!!💗
@rockahbilly76
One of most satisfying pieces of music ever. I've viewed this video at least a dozen times and never tire of it.
@scottstuit9305
The Rhspsody at 95 years old in 2019. It is just as beautiful, inspirational, and relevant as ever. A magical performance for the ages. Bravo Meastro.
@padraicfanning7055
This means it falls into the public domain on January 1, 2020.
@scottstuit9305
@@padraicfanning7055 That is correct.
@KikatzuMusik
@@scottstuit9305 You could live forever, sir.
@charlesdavis7087
you still cooking? Hi, this is Charles. Listening... to this master work... and how Lenny and George.... moved through various time periods... together.... in New York.... and in certain social and musical Societies. It is know. Same with Michael Tillson Thomas. Excellence is self-evident... Teachers, teachers, friends, Teachers, and. Beauty speaks for it Self. So can Truth. Memory can't forget. Or can it? The Answer.... is ...... three g's and an E flat. Yes.... (musical notes.). Set upon Time and Eternity... and everybody knows it. !!! !
@annedemol1006
la beauté,ABSOLUE;
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@509734
Some guy: a conductor does nothing in a performance Bernstein: hold my beer
@vincentd.1424
Baton*
@noelfarrell7627
stfu twat
@ggalvin1882
Noel Farrell hahaha that’s pretty funny
@ggalvin1882
Noel Farrell I like hearing an insult from a woman who says twat 😂
@tokenlau7519
Not some guy, but Nigel Kennedy. If Bernstein did not conduct they would still played it just the same. They have ears and sense of rythm and melody, that's all what is needed to play it well.
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@jimquigley1127
Classical music meets jazz in a most sublime form. Such a perfect match of drama, tenderness, love, beauty and grandeur. This gift of genius wants only to be heard. All of us who have heard it surely must be moved. What inspiration and vitality! It lives.Thanks George Gershwin. You will be everlasting in the hearts of your countrymen. Thanks @UCcATZsQUgI3SEeoEp6Hwgtg for posting this.
@levieenrose7646
Whenever I hear Gershwins masterpiece, I think of a New York skyline as the sun is rising. Magnificent!!
@dianebenzler9133
I feel Leonard Bernstein was a real blessing and a joy to listen to, thank God he's on video for future generations!
@ElleSunminLee
He was definitely something very special gift to humanity! <3
@oluaprotciv
I'm Brazilian and I don't mind saying that I love the United States. This piece breathes American vitality, color and creative power.
@mendellabkowski7828
Sou americano mas falo português 😀
@tuxguys
+Paulo V Thank you for appreciating US.
@dougoverhoff2038
It definitely represents Americana! This is a timeless piece, a classic from a true genius, played by a virtuoso and a magnificent orchestra. I just want to know who the plebeians and Neanderthals were who gave this a thumbs down. What, exactly, were they expecting? I can understand someone's critiquing a few minor technical flaws, but, come on, how bad could this have been, really? Some people's children! They must have some unimaginatively high standards to thumb this down, that's all I can say. It's a masterpiece, in my view.
@tjp2109
Thank you. Yes, it's what America USED to be. Now the country is overrun with scarwwwdy cats, afraid of their own shadow. Creative? Nope, a person has to be politically correct creative, not real creativity. Color? Nope, has to be a correct color. Vitality? Nope, vitality is seen as incorrect.
@Pablo-zk6ug
I'm from Spain and I hate USA but this is one of my favorite piece of music ever
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@elizabethle221
The best music ever. I have loved Gershwin's music since I was a child. Leonard Bernstein is a master, I felt exhausted from watching. Just incredible.
@moskillz76
Whenever I hear this song I feel like I've been transported to the roaring 20s in a time machine. The perfect combination of jazz and piano concerto. Truly one of the greatest American compositions of all time.
@theimp5901
There's some Latin influence as well !
@zappycrook1130
Simply piano ads: 'Leonard after 3 days with Simply Piano'
@hermanlai6035
I've found a love..
@simpysprouty3657
Only after practicing 40 hours a day tho...
@tboadventures9238
N Ally I watch 2 set also
@danielcanning6963
@@tboadventures9238 Same
@salvat3735
LING LING 40 HOURS
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@marcchami8851
This 17 minute video told a bigger story than any other movie I've seen. Gershwin master piece.
@charlesdavis7087
This was breath taking. And it was given to me... as mine. My "Rhapsody" in blue, the American Rhapsody.... in many colors, Our 'spirit'. Historic. Listen.... then and now. OURS! Thanks George. ... and lenny for the spirit that lives behind the notes.
@manfredlipp6410
@@charlesdavis7087 don´t forget Ferde Grofé!
@charlesdavis7087
@@manfredlipp6410 Who's Ferde Grofel?
@warrengwonka2479
And you can hear George play it with a band and not an orchestra here.
@charlesdavis7087
@Riana Fokine Back in the 70's there was a commune called the Love Isreal Family. I knew many of them.
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@debbiecrenshaw1257
Gershwin and Bernstein were both geniuses. Unbelievable human execution of brilliance.
@valve6642
If u love Gershwin, you like his 'Cuban Overture'. These young musicians get it right! https://youtu.be/X_I7nf5I6yo
@juliacastano-xs5si
Absolutamente !
@topsyturvyy4558
One of most beautiful and enigmatic pieces of music ever written! Leonard Bernstein, a genius at his craft!
@wolfil8019
Since I was a child of about 5 years old, when I first heard this, I found the clarinet in this song utterly lovely. I still go into ecstasies when I hear it. An utterly beautiful composition in which the elements of blues, jazz and classical are brilliantly blended. (As a 5-year-old, though, I only know that I loved it ... that was 60 years ago.)
@carlosalbertosimonetti8218
Apesar de ouvir desde jovem esta obra magnífica, agora aos meus 73 anos que fui arrebatado por uma intensa emoção de derramar muitos lagrimas doces, me senti abençoado pelo despertar e agradeço a minha assistente virtual, a Alexa, que conhece minhas músicas prediletas. Muito obrigado.
@winstonbeech3418
My dad taught clarinet lessons when I was a kid and I remember his students playing that opening to Rhapsody in Blue. It was the craziest thing I ever heard, I thought it was some kind of trick or tuning exercise.. lol. I visualized the mouthpiece popping off the clarinet and rising up to the ceiling. Later I asked my dad if he could "make the mouthpiece go up to the ceiling" and he knew exactly what I meant. I have a number of recordings, including I believe this Bernstein version on vinyl, and one I can't remember the name of where the opening clarinetist drags that gliss waaaaayyyy out, it's the longest and slowest performance I've ever heard of it, and no clue who the player was. It takes a tremendous amount of control. I've mostly played saxophone and I have trouble even doing a short gliss - like the opening to "Yakkety Sax". My dad played a very hard reed - a Vandoren 5 that he worked down to his liking. Amazing he could make it go "to the ceiling and beyond" with such a hard reed.
@fabriziomata9004
Nothing screams America more than this song...
@FreakieFan
Not a song
@youraverageblackboy5402
how? lol
@sunimod1895
bernstein, gershwin, copland are the quintessential american classical composers imo
@carolenewman5180
I agree. One of the greatest pieces of music ever written. American. Bold, great and unabashed in its beauty
@kinky_Z
I was living and going to school in Philly when this concert was performed. I was so poor... barely making it. I would have given anything in the world to have had the money to go into New York, to buy a ticket and to have been there for this magnificent performance.... I always loved Bernstein and I loved Gershwin since 1958 when I was 8 years old and my grandma would always play him. I still love this masterpiece.
@dannydoc1969
I went to P.S. 6 in Manhattan and was extremely lucky to have Mr. Bernstein come to our school to hold a Childrens Young People's Concert. He was fun and made us fall in love with classical music, a true genius and great teacher.
@topturretgunner
Good on you. That must have been something.
@Tracymmo
Nice!
@geraldhitchens8130
This is possibly one of the greatest pieces of music ever written and so evocative of 1920 s New York.
@brianlutz7813
It is, no possibly about it
@nathanieldavis5231
Yes it is
@mikecook3999
I've been a professional musician for years. I was raised on this genius. Thanks Mom.
@nathanieldavis5231
Me too as a baby I heard Gershwin from Mom. From Pop Miles Davis , then I became a drummer.
@kevinmalone3210
This is the best version of Rhapsody in Blue on YouTube. No exceptions.
@leewhite2830
Yet SHAME on YouTube for chopping it into pieces with commercials! This is an unforgettable piece of the American songbook which should never be interrupted.
@nancyevers5447
My father played this on Sunday mornings, as I do and I am 81 now. Wonderful the best evers.
@rexlex1736
"Rhapsody In Blue" is the eternal essence of NYC any way you look at it.
@karlhungus5554
@Guy Incognito I have that association, too. But, in my case, I think it's from Woody Allen's movie "Manhattan," as this music is featured in the film.
@_cat_0w0
@@karlhungus5554 4 me its from the movie Gatsby since its used in it
@karlhungus5554
@@_cat_0w0 I've not seen "Gatsby," but have heard of it. Would you recommend it? Obviously, it has some great music, since "Rhapsody in Blue" is featured.
@_cat_0w0
@@karlhungus5554 Yes, I would definitely recommend it! Its a great movie
@richiebear1969
You have to have a little faith in people.
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@Trixex
It's insane to think that something so modern was composed such long time ago
@teebee3416
great to see you appreciate great music
@Nooticus
^ its beyond insane to think. Literally all music was and is ahead of its time
@Laimickel
1924 is still modern history, and, also, not that long ago.
@prayagsuthar9856
i'm very small, so idk about completely modern. With the clarinet and the loud trumpets and all, this song feels like it has a very 1920s character, and I actually like it for that.
@jeanettenawatzki9472
But it isn’t modern....it’s pure classic that exceeds time. Pure genius
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@ewadronzek423
It's been 100 years since its premiere, and you still want to listen to it. Great workmanship🌷
@rockahbilly76
The greatest song EVER and played and conducted by the virtuoso himself.
@joelds1751
Those of you with parents or grandparents who lived in NYC or across the Hudson, in the 20's, like my dad's mom and dad - Gershwin's music makes you feel the whole experience, vibe, mindset and feelings of NYC at that time. My grandpa used to talk about Gershwin and Frankie from Hoboken all the time at our Sunday dinners at grandma's house back in the 60's, here in San Diego.
@robertcavalier6133
An American classic! The performance characterizes the great American way. New York City's attributes shine through. The orchestra knows exactly how to dazzle a capitvated audience. As someone who lived in New Jersey for 3 years as a student at The Lawrenceville School -- I'm honored & delighted to express my feelings about this powerful showcase of bravado and grace! Love it! * Robert Cavalier; Forest Grove, OR; 22 Sept., 2022.
@jaxhoffalot2812
An excellent summary. I feel like it captures a time & place that no longer exist, but are somehow familiar. A more accurate musical encapsulation of New York City is not possible.
@jeffbarber3018
Gershwin's music played in our home when my wife were raising our children. This song in particular, reminds me of when my wife and I used to hold both of our children in our arms and dance around the dining room. That is a moment in time that I miss, but the beautiful music of Gershwin keeps that memory alive.
@mlbrooks4066
I saw the Baltimore Symphony do this recently. Incredible clarinetist. After the performance there was this little kid in the aisle so excited. He kept saying “I love the clarinet!” And the audience screamed for the clarinetist like the Beatles were up there. YaoGuang Zhai.
@JAYEGRL
Thank you for posting! This performance never fails to please! I saw him in concert with his orchestra in the mid 70's. He spoke to me during intermission and, when he learned I was an aspiring percussionist, waved a tympani player down to show me how to tune them. I was 8 or 9 at the time and never forgot it. He was a giving teacher and a real class act!
@jzthompson9598
His 'Young People's concerts' changed my life. I remember his explanation and performance of "Carmen" and "Peter and the Wolf" made me a life-long lover of classical music, at the same time as I was falling in love with the Beatles. Those were magical times.
@Fan1Magic
That last repetition of the main theme before going into the last, fully-fleshed out final chord is one of the most beautiful and triumphant thing a human will ever conceive
@afridgetoofar1818
Hyperbole
@mugfan9779
@@afridgetoofar1818 facts
@lemarkipusylvers4840
So true
@bruceghent8776
Hard to believe that this piece is nearly 100 years old. It premiered in April, 1924 at the Aeolian Hall in New York as part of a programmer of modern Music. Don't recall anyone remembering anything else that night other than this self-styled masterpiece. I watched this telecast live in 1976.
@theimp5901
WOW ! I remember it too. ! We're spoiled for life ! I was 25 and it still takes my breath away.
@BlueberryMuffin-nt7ew
I was born on the date of this broadcast. 🎉😊
@mercedes932
Such a shame we lost George Gershwin at such a young age. Just imagine what else he could’ve written!
@dannydoc1969
Lenny is like a kid in a toy store, he's having so much fun, he has his own Symphony orchestra to back him up, playing one of his favorite tunes. His love of all types of music was legendary. I met him and his family on line at a Grateful Dead Concert at the Fillmore East, briefly, Bill Graham, came out personally to escort them in, before the doors opened to the public.
@yvonneorloski3823
Amazing!
@1948dock
Have heard Rhapsody 1000's of times in 50 yrs - this is my fav.
@jojotamayoayo1709
Never tire of it!
@jackvoss5841
I have to come back every once in awhile to again immerse myself in the majesty of George Gershwin’s mind. Magnificent. Absolutely magnificent. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying
@ascotberks2018
My dad had a reel to reel tape recorder. When I was four or five he would sit me next to the speakers and he would point out how all the instruments were calling out to each other in this music. The music was telling a story.
So pleased United Airlines keeps this music front and center. It is from the great American songbook.
@willlord7232
This music shows the amazing things humans can do together, united by our love for each other instead of divided by hatred. Gershwin is so clearly influenced by the jazz of the 20's in his composition, and many at the time would have written of that jazz as negro music and paid it no mind or shunned it because of reacism. Gershwin recognized the genius of that music and by combining it with the classical tradition of Europe he created something entirely new and fantastic. Its amazing the beauty we create when we build bridges instead of walls...
@joansmith3296
how amazingly beautiful! i can see the buildings and trains. i can see the bridges and all the lights and the traffic in the streets. the people walking on fifth avenue and the theater lights in times square. yes, i'm a native new yorker. gorgeous, just gorgeous, gershwin was a genius and bernstein was the best.
@shanilmisra
I'm from Africa and you made me see this song in a different light. It truly encapsulates everything American of the era. How better to portray the energy and vibrancy of New York than with this genius music?
@danlbentley9769
You said it, people struttin down the street....maybe in Harlem, 1930.
@loumaresca6142
Very well stated! You're right on the mark!
@TheDavidlloydjones
Um, Jean, (and Dan'l, below), uh, Paris? N'ya pas de "Fifth Avenue," ni de "Harlem" la. Well, Josephine Baker maybe...
@catherineeng8
I love what you wrote. Same. I am from New York too. This composition takes my breath away every time I hear it. My son got to perform this with his youth orchestra in Shanghai a few years ago, on July 4 no less. I was worried this would all come across as a little too American, but the audience loved it and gave them a standing ovation. Maybe they could see their city in it too.
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@patton303
Bernstein was such a killer musician. Playing the piano and driving the clock at the same time. Just astounding.
@AlgerianRatt
It's so cool how the pianist is also the director
@rayfreedell4411
And the violinist behind him looks like Kelsey Gramer!
@marysalisbury9270
He was the conductor of the New York Philharmonic orchestra. They were well schooled under their maestro.
@jwcorcoran9838
I burst into tears of joy at the end of this, it’s just too goddamn epic.
@ParkAvenue34
@JW Corcoran Do you ever look up the sheet music for these pieces? I find them absolutely mesmerizing. 🎶Notes flying around, bridges,etc. Note: Check out Alexander Scriabin — Mysterium. This piece might be more accurately filed under “Impossible”. ...
@michaelweisberg6685
Conductor, Composer, and Pianist, there are few whose very persona is Music itself.
This is my favorite rendition of Rhapsody in Blue for Bernstein and for the perfect pacing in the Philharmonic interpretation.
Greatness never dies with Leonard Bernstein making music that we can enjoy forever.
@silviocaetanodesouza4908
Excelente. Composições para ouvir sempre. Pena termos perdido estes compositores tão bons.
@rumismith89
My college roommates and I listened to the Paul Whiteman Orchestra version over and over. Our friend, Diane, would lift the needle off the record just before the end of the initial clarinet run to groans from the crowd. I am 75 and I have listened to every version that was available, most of them over and over.. This has amounted to hundreds of listens. I never tired of it. If this is played at my funeral, I might rise from the dead.
@itsdarksucks
The love theme in E major that comes in at 10:40 melts my heart. Especially when the piano joins in with those chords. So beautiful 😢
@westsidestory5114
The Count of Tuscany
@youreadyfreddie
10:21 - 12:30 breaks my heart a little bit because it always makes me think of my mother, a classical violinist, who is gone now. Thank you, Maestro.
@user-uu2cj9ct3j
I forgot how much I bloody love this piece. Was one of my favorites as a youngster. Lovely performance and recording!
@mihaelasearov659
You've put my thoughts into words! I clicked on the link and then it hit. How could I have forgotten about it?
@guadalupepaxtian3331
How wonderful it's to se Leonard playing and conducting this masterpiece. I've never seeing before. I'm from México City, thanks a lot.
@guadalupepaxtian3331
To see, excuse me.
@julieames1920
As a child, I listened 🎶 to my older sister play this on our piano. She played everything Ira and George Gershwin made. She played all the other classics, too.
@tabfiend
Magnificent. I am Australian but this music always makes me think of the United States during the 1920's and 1930's (New York). It captures the speakeasys, the street scenes and the overall "vibe" of America.
@edwardgallagher6432
My mother was in an iron lung in 1949 at Grace New Haven Hospital and the nurses played this for her and she passed on her love for this masterpiece to all of us.
@gheorghedragan8314
Leonard Bernstein,mare muzician,compozitor,dirijor,aici interpret de exceptie cu o tehnica rafinata.
@sansenemi
The scenes of probihition, drunk people, bribes and mobsters killing eachother for money. Yeah right.
@staalman1226
@@sansenemi 1.) "probihition" 2.) way to be that guy.
@zeero62
Your interpretation is spot on.....as a matter of fact, Rhapsody in Blue debuted on Feb 12, 1924, at the New York Modern Music Festival.
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@brucebarlie8544
I was so very blessed to have seen Leonard Bernstein and the NYP ...at Carnegie Hall in 1976 as part of the Bicentennial Celebration...It was one of the musical highlights of my life and I've been to scores of concerts...To see and hear the combination of conductor, piano soloist and orchestra, playing one of the greatest pieces of American music was like I died and went to heaven !!! So awesome to have it on you tube...for everyone to enjoy !
@ellismedavoy7314
You are so lucky,.
@rachelthomas2393
Lucky you
@barryweinrich7289
That must have really been something . This floors me every time I watch . A well oiled machine Superior talent all around.
@RadicalnessTV
niggka you watched a predator #bernsteindidntkillhimself
@emjackson2289
That McDonnell Douglas F15A Eagle in front of The Gateway to the West, St Louis, this. . . . .magic
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@tatyanachapman1265
Omg how I adore Leonard Bernstein conducts and plays at the same time of this masterpiece you cannot get any more New York then this !!! Love it so much always have always will my favourite piece of all time by George Gershwin <3 <3
@elizabethmurphy9384
I think that is the warmest I have ever heard the clarinet solo that opens the piece.
@HelloThere6043
Amazing! Leonard Bernstein is not only an amazing conductor but an amazing pianist. He is truly one of the greatest musical minds to ever walk the earth.
@lucyfoster4082
Spencer Pryor No slouch as a composer either....I don’t care that he won’t be remembered for his “serious” pieces—West Side Story and Candide will live forever.
@tnmtemerity
He was amazing. Playing music by the son of immigrants, he himself an immigrant - and LGBT. It’s curious that people derided by the current administration are actually those who bring us greatness.
@SheldonSchorer
I had occasion to discuss Bernstein with someone who had played under him in the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. The stories he told of the depth of his understanding of each instrument and how he coaxed the best performance out of each player are amazing.
I had met him for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath." So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
@rolandronald3178
One thing I admire about Bernstein was his open-mindedness to the "new" music of the 1960's. His appreciation for the complexities in the compositions of Brian Wilson and Lennon-McCartney likely helped open the minds of older generations at the time. Benny Goodman was another one from the same era who could spot incredible talent amidst music aimed toward a much younger audience. He once cited "You Are the Sunshine of My Life" as the third-greatest song ever written! I certainly wouldn't go that far, but Goodman's opinion made me reexamine the song in an attempt to understand his strong feelings towards it.
@SheldonSchorer
I met a friend for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath." So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
@yliberal6355
Excellent audio! If you wear headphones you can hear every instrument in this classic piece. Bravo Gershwin and the New York Philharmonic!!
@frank60657
The love of Gershwin flows through the body and fingers of Bernstein. What a wonderful video. Thank you for sharing!
@torbjorneriksson9304
I bought this record in the 70’s, and thought it was the most beautiful song I’ve ever heard. The record was lost, but now, some 50 years later, I know I was right the first time. It still is the most beautiful song I’ve ever heard. 👍
@HayastAnFedayi
11:53 still gives me goosebumps every time, used to listen to this song before every time I flew my plane in flight school, obviously the United commercials I saw as a kid were the reason for equating this masterpiece with aviation, but I can’t think of any other song that encapsulates the wonder and love of flight than this song, for whatever reason, especially 10:40 - 12:30
@barbararomanowski2904
The strings are just magical
@mackie9255
You can just see the music flowing through his body the whole time - that's what I find so amazing about good orchestra conductors. They ARE the music.
@nancyarnott699
Especially so since he plays the piano parts as well as conducts. He does both with such intense feeling.
@amandaleopold1687
The clarinet opening gets me every time. I will forever love this masterpiece!
@c.a.savage5689
This is such an incredible piece of music and SO brilliantly played. I have no doubt it was a mystical experience for Bernstein, the musiciens and the audience. Bravo.
@jojotamayoayo1709
Thank you Mr. Bernstein and of course Mr. Gershwin, this is my all time favorite composition, you make life so much richer, for having been here!!!!!!
@hcopen6051
This piece of music has always been one of my favorites! When I was a child getting ready for school in the late 80’s and early 90’s, my mother would only allow The Weather Channel to be on the television. The commercial that usually came on right before “Local on the 8’s” was a United Airlines commercial; and, as most of you know, Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue is their theme music. So, my mornings were spent eating cereal while listening to Mark Mancuso tell me about the week ahead and watching United’s aircraft soar through the clouds to Gershwin’s Rhapsody. I am now a 38 year old who is fascinated with the weather, in awe of aviation and in love with classical music. Now if I could just become a meteorologist who conducts a symphony orchestra on a 747 my life would be complete!
@wyatt6097
Follow your dreams...
@markwalker2952
Amen!
@crowtheaxolazelle5923
W o w
@organbuilder272
+Hcopen - What a worthy wish list, who knows, Maybe some day........
@marielfranco1504
Chilhood is the only important, the rest of our lives we play that what we feel at that moment...;-) If you can, go to give a huge hug to your mother...
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@jetsetter8541
Every single orchestra player gets 100% of the credit. Amazing!
@rockturtleneck
This music to me perfectly captures the feeling of walking around New York City for the first time and staring up in wonder at the skyscrapers while the hustle and bustle of the city swirls around you. Gershwin's composition and Bernstein's performance are equivalent to a musical Chrysler Building, a testament to man's ambition and artistic acheivement.
@SheldonSchorer
I had occasion to discuss Bernstein with someone who had played under him in the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. The stories he told of the depth of his understanding of each instrument and how he coaxed the best performance out of each player are amazing.
I had met him for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath."
So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
@SheldonSchorer
I met a friend for lunch a day after Leonard Bernstein died. As my friend, (let's call him Cohen) played the double-bassoon in the Israel Philharmonic, I asked him to tell me some Leonard Bernstein stories. This is how he told it to me.
First of all, he said, Bernstein was an incredible musical genius. When rehearsing, he would always recognize any wrong notes and would both point it out and correct it. He was a wonderful teacher who knew each instrument and what the player would have to do to improve and get it right.
Did he ever correct you? I asked. He paused, took a long breath, and said - let me tell you what happened to me.
There is passage in a piece by Bruckner where the double-bassoon plays an exceptionally long passage. It's impossible to play the entire passage in one breath, so the question is whether you should take the breath near the beginnin or the end of the passage. I asked Bernstein which I should do. He said, "Cohen, I want you to do the entire passage in one breath." I protested that it was impossible, and he knew it and I renewed my request for instructions on when I should take my breath. He said, "One breath. Let's do the piece now, with one breath."
So the orchestra geared up for that piece, and when I reached the passage, I filled up with air, tried as hard as I could, but simply couldn't complete the passage. Bernstein said: "Don't worry. On the night of the performance you'll do it in one breath."
All of the time until the night of the performance, I was panicking out. What did this maniac want from me. If I try to do the whole piece in one breath, I will fail and the audience will know it. I'll embarrass myself. But if I take my regular breath, Bernstein will be disappointed in me.
I asked him, so what did you do?
On the night of the performance, I decided to try to do the passage in one breath. And I did it - in one breath!
I asked - did Bernstein stop the show to give you an applause?
No. But a bit later in the performance, he looked at me and briefly nodded his head. That was all, and that was plenty. When I went home, I was walking on air. I was floating. Bernstein knew how to motivate and get the best out of everybody.
He added a coda to the story. "Someone told me that when Bernstein returned to New York, he rehearsed the Philharmonic to do the same Bruckner piece. He also instructed Kelly, the double bassoonist to do the passage in one breath. Kelly complained: you know that that is impossible! Bernstein replied, "Why can't you do it? After all, Cohen in Israel did it."
@johnseriousmen9256
There’s a special place in hell for whoever put an ad smack in the middle of this
@poprockahead3924
Absolutely, straight to execution!
@Video7Rose
Amen to that!
@segmentsAndCurves
PAY.
@SpeegBJ
Thanks Tyler.
@hifijohn
cast the devil away with your savior called adblocker.
@darthstarkiller1912
Just think, 2024 marks the centennial of "Rhapsody in Blue" which is still a masterpiece of modern music. Gershwin was a genius, and Bernstein's conducting and piano playing were out of this world. Incredible performance.
@johnscanlan9335
Amen!!!
@kevinmalone3210
I'll 2nd that!
@David-yw2lv
The Bret "Hitman"Hart of musical compositions,the best there is,the best there was,the best that ever will be.