Cooper’s Dedication to Sharing Bernstein’s Legacy
NEW YORK — Bradley Cooper, renowned actor and director, expressed his admiration for the legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein following a captivating performance by the New York Philharmonic. In a sold-out event at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall, Cooper shared his journey of creating the film “Maestro” to shine a light on Bernstein’s life and work.
Unveiling Bernstein’s Legacy to the World
Cooper highlighted the lack of recognition for Bernstein in popular culture, stating, “Many people don’t know who he is,” emphasizing the need to raise awareness about the iconic figure beyond his association with “West Side Story.” The event featured Yannick Nézet-Séguin’s debut with the New York Philharmonic, conducting pieces from the movie intertwined with multimedia elements.
Cooper’s Transformation into Bernstein
During an interview before the concert, Cooper delved into the meticulous process of embodying Bernstein on screen, mentioning the challenges of capturing the maestro’s essence, including his unique voice and physical characteristics. The film “Maestro” premiered to critical acclaim at the Venice International Film Festival and received multiple Academy Award nominations.
Nézet-Séguin’s Insight on Bernstein’s Impact
Nézet-Séguin, a prominent conductor deeply involved in Cooper’s project, emphasized Bernstein’s revolutionary contributions to music, urging a reevaluation of his classical compositions. The performance at Lincoln Center showcased the orchestra’s prowess in renditions of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony and Bernstein’s “Candide.”
Cooper’s Future Endeavors
Looking ahead, Cooper teased a potential biopic on Herbert von Karajan, a stark departure from his portrayal of Bernstein. The collaboration between Cooper and Nézet-Séguin underscored the enduring legacy of Bernstein and the profound impact of his work on the world of music.