I bought this to learn about music, even though I am not exactly in the young category. I figured it would be pretty straightforward, if it was geared towards 12-year-old's. The poor kids in the audience look kind of glassy-eyed, but their parents seem to really be enjoying Bernstein explain, conduct, play the piano, and even sing! Remember, that was a simpler time. This production has oodles of violins and clarinets, but no bells or whistles... if you know what I mean. I had just read Schuyler Chapin's autobiography, and thought his years as close friend of Bernstein warranted closer examination. I'd heard the name Leonard Bernstein many times growing up, and thought, 'O.K., it's time to know what was so special about this fellow'. This is one of several Bernstein DVD's I purchased. I also very much enjoyed "Bernstein on Beethoven - A Celebration in Vienna/Piano Concerto No. 1 (2006, DVD)" Lenny's genius in performing and interpretation of the music is clearly evident. Apparently he lived his life in high gear, too. Considering it's 50 years old, the film quality, sound and editing is just fair. I am very happy to own this collection, and I haven't even finished it yet!Read full review
I plan eventually to acquire the second volume. The Young People’s Concerts as presented by Bernstein were a huge success because he never talked down to his young audiences and he made it an adventure. He demystified many aspects of professional music making. It is amazing that Bernstein could do as much as he did within a one hour program. It is too bad that Bernstein is gone. He has been gone for over thirty years now. I was not, unfortunately, among those privileged to know him or to experience any of his live performances; but all of us feel impoverished that he isn’t here anymore, just as we felt richer when he was in our midst.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I did as well, get the minimum musical education from this chap on Romanian television...strange, but true... I was every Sunday morning in front of tv, forget chasing the footy down the street, forget going to swim, Lenny , was the wizard of the times; and how much good it did to me ! While later in life some friends of mine will end up in jails, or dead due to alcoholism , i've got that bit o musical culture , enough to help me make a difference between stiles and qualities of the past and present music . Now, i can give a bit of a critical advice to my son who produces music , and yes , some time, i do put a disk on, and loose myself in the years of childhood, far away from the mad crowd ... He is still good today , as it was almost half a century ago... The people who worked with him at the times, deserve lots of kudos for the dedication and sacrifices they made for the betterment of human kind. True professionals who performed at their best , no matter if for kids , or their parents or the grandparents... Only if someone will watch the explanation and interpretation of the Bolero , and can rest assure that it will follow the rest of it... Plus, when he put together an Israeli and an Egyptian, at that times was an act of courage. On ya Lenny !Read full review
Everything wa in good shape, and discs play well. Bernstein was one of the musical greats of the last century.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I first saw these programs many years ago as a child. I thoroughly enjoyed them and anticipated each premier with excitement. They were not to be missed! Seeing them again was just as inspiring! These are a national treasure by a very gifted artist and composer. Leonard Bernstein was a gift to us as a nation. I want my grandchildren to see these programs and know about the man who made them.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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