Courtesy of Library of Congress

Leonard Bernstein 1918-1990

Acclaimed conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein made his conducting debut at Carnegie Hall in November 1943. Bernstein is best known for serving as the long-time music director of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, for conducting concerts by many of the world's leading orchestras, and for writing the music to West Side Story, the Broadway musical. Bernstein's other popular works include his collaborative adaptations of On the Town and Candide. He wrote several symphonies inspired by his Jewish heritage, including Jeremiah and Kaddish. Committed to musical education, Bernstein brought a new level of attention to the "Young People's Concerts" series at the New York Philharmonic.