Exploration Of Leonard Bernstein (Press, 27 May 1989)

Joan Peyser's biography "Leonard Bernstein," published in 1989, provides an in-depth exploration of the conductor and composer's life, drawing attention to aspects such as his bisexuality and complex relationships with authority figures. Reviewer Philip Norman notes that Peyser's emphasis on Bernstein's sexual preferences is largely irrelevant to understanding his musical achievements. Instead, he finds her focus on Bernstein's troubled relationship with his father and how it influenced his interactions with prominent male figures repetitive and somewhat simplistic. The narrative is positioned more as a psychological exploration of Bernstein rather than a detailed analysis of his music. Peyser introduces the idea that understanding the intricacies of Bernstein's character is essential to grasping why he led such a tumultuous life. However, Norman criticises this approach, suggesting that it reduces the rich complexity of Bernstein to a series of psychological interpretations that may not fully capture the man’s genius. Throughout the biography, Peyser portrays Bernstein as an egomaniac with a sadistic streak, drawing potentially exaggerated parallels to historical figures of controversy. For instance, she claims that had he chosen politics over music, he could have become a notorious figure. This dark portrayal is illustrated by anecdotes from Bernstein’s career, including incidents where he displayed erratic behaviour, such as firing musicians abruptly and making controversial remarks about AIDS. Conversely, Peyser’s assessment of Bernstein's musical abilities is largely positive. She acknowledges his skills as a conductor and communicator, particularly highlighting his engaging television programmes like "Omnibus." His compositional work, such as "Chichester Psalms" and "West Side Story," receives praise; however, it is suggested that his fame as a conductor overshadows his compositions, which might not have received as much attention had he not been a well-known performer. Moreover, the biography touches upon broader themes in American music during Bernstein's time, particularly the tension between tonal composers and those who adhered to twelve-tone techniques. This aspect is significant, as Bernstein advocated for melody and tonal composition, positioning him in opposition to more avant-garde trends. Norman concludes that despite its focus on some controversial and potentially trivial aspects of Bernstein's life, "Leonard Bernstein" offers engaging insights for music lovers, reflecting the dynamic interplay between his public persona and personal struggles. The biography ultimately seeks to present a lively, albeit imperfect, portrait of a complex figure in American music history, inviting readers to appreciate Bernstein's profound impact on the field.

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