Before Bradley Cooper drops Maestro on Netflix, what you need to know about Leonard Bernstein

Known primarily for his on-screen roles, Bradley Cooper is returning to the director's chair with his upcoming film - Maestro - marking his second directorial effort after the success of A Star Is Born in 2018. Here’s a bit about Leonard Bernstein, the musical genius he’s embodying in the Netflix original.

Who was Maestro Leonard Bernstein?

In Maestro, Cooper takes on the role of legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein, a character that he also co-wrote and produced for the biographical romance. The movie delves into Bernstein's life, with a focus on his complex 25-year marriage to Felicia Montealegre, attempting to capture the essence of both life and art.

Leonard Bernstein, a name synonymous with musical genius and artistic innovation, left an indelible mark on the world of classical music and beyond.

Born on August 25, 1918, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, US, Bernstein's life journey unfolded as a symphony of talent, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His multifaceted contributions as a composer, conductor, pianist, and educator have enriched the cultural landscape and continue to inspire generations.

Alongside Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg and Todd Philips, who all serve as producers, Cooper offers audiences a glimpse of the film's essence through its teaser. 

Maestro is set to have its world premiere at the 80th Venice International Film Festival on September 2.

Carey Mulligan joins the cast as well, portraying Felicia Montealegre. The story aims to explore the intricate bond between the iconic conductor and Montealegre. 

All about the film

The film also touches on Bernstein's potential relationships with men, portrayed by Matt Bomer, who plays a clarinet player and one of Bernstein's lovers.

Maya Hawke takes on the role of Bernstein's daughter Jamie, while Sarah Silverman stars as the composer's sister Shirley. Michael Urie portrays dancer and choreographer Jerome Robbins. 

The screenplay was co-written by Cooper and Spotlight writer and Academy award winner, Josh Singer, while its cinematography is being handled by Oscar-nominee Matthew Libatique, who also worked with Cooper on A Star Is Born.

Originally, Martin Scorsese was set to direct the project but stepped down to focus on The Irishman. Despite this, he remained attached as a producer, along with Phillips and Spielberg. Cooper's connection to the project began through Spielberg, who knew of his interest in conducting. Cooper's directorial vision for Maestro allowed him to explore his passion for writing and directing.

Bernstein, an enigmatic figure in the realm of music, left behind a legacy that defies simple categorisation. His life, marked by artistic brilliance, unconventional interpretations, and a relentless quest for connection, weaves a narrative that merits exploration. 

Bernstein's complex persona, from his prodigious talent to his unique approach to music and his impact on education and social awareness, forms a tapestry that deserves careful consideration.

Bernstein's musical prowess was evident early on, earning him a place at prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Curtis Institute of Music. However, it was his unexpected debut as a conductor with the New York Philharmonic in 1943 that propelled him into the limelight. This moment was not just a fortuitous accident, but a testament to his adaptability, charisma, and deep understanding of music.

His boundless enthusiasm for music and his charismatic presence soon propelled him to prominence, captivating audiences worldwide.

Bernstein's compositions traverse genres, embodying both traditional and innovative elements. His iconic work on 1961’s West Side Story, effortlessly blended classical and popular music, redefining the boundaries of musical expression. Yet, beneath the melodies lay layers of complexity, reflecting his desire to challenge conventions and provoke thought.

Beyond the spotlight, Bernstein's commitment to education transformed his legacy. His Young People's Concerts, a groundbreaking initiative, revolutionised music education and brought symphonic experiences to living rooms nationwide.

Through these programs, he shared his passion and knowledge, nurturing a generation of music enthusiasts and breaking down barriers between audiences and orchestras.

Bernstein's social consciousness further deepens the narrative. He harnessed his platform to address pressing issues, from civil rights to war, crafting compositions like Mass that mirrored the tumultuous era. His embrace of social causes demonstrated that music was not just an artistic pursuit but a conduit for change, a sentiment as relevant today as it was during his time.

However, Bernstein's story also carries subtler shades. His desire to connect sometimes masked a personal struggle for identity. Rumours surrounding his sexuality added layers of complexity to his narrative, a theme explored in the upcoming film.

Bernstein's story is a symphony of contradictions and harmonies, reflecting the intricate interplay of artistry, identity, and societal impact. Telling his story offers an opportunity to delve beyond the surface, to understand the complexities that shaped his trajectory. 

Through Bernstein, we encounter not just a musical luminary but a human being in all its multifaceted glory. His legacy serves as a reminder that narratives, like melodies, are not confined to a single note but span a spectrum of emotions and experiences.

Maestro is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September, followed by select theater releases in November, and finally arriving on Netflix on December 20.