Bernstein, Leonard (1918 - 1990)

[smittims]

It's been available on a DVD; you may still find it.

The original film was one of three late 1960s BBC programmes masterminded by the indefatigable Humphrey Burton, and were for most people in Britain their first chance to see and hear Bernstein conducting. The othe two works were Sibelius' 5th and The Rite of Spring, and at Bernstein's request the series was called, oddly I thought even at the time , 'the Symphonic Twilight'. I was impressed by the performances. The LSO seemed to be especially concerned to give of their best, and indeed for Bernstein too, I think, it was a chance to make a European reputation, something, I believe , he wanted more than anything else.

It was also a chance to see him conduct the finale of the 'Rite' after Robert Craft accused him of re-barring the passage because, according to Bob, he was unable to beat the original . I've not been able to assess this .

[Tony Halstead]

Are you sure it was Anthony Burton (rather than Humphrey Burton? I think the latter is more likely).
Bernstein himself didn't re-bar the 'Danse Sacrale'; it was done by Koussevitsky.
LB inherited that version, on condition ( as I understand it) that he used it in his own performances after Koussevitsky's death.

[Cockney Sparrow]

It's been available on a DVD; you may still find it.........................

The Stravinsky and Sibelius are on ICA Classics DVD - Catalogue No: ICAD5082. (Available from Presto).

Shostakovich 2nd hand on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shostakovich-Bernstein-Symphony-No-NTSC/dp/B005A0FDDE

(Amazon • ASIN : B005A0FDDE).

[pastoralguy]

The LSO seemed to be especially concerned to give of their best...

And featured a young James Galway who played first flute.

[smittims]

Thanks, Tony, for the correction. I should have checked, and it struck me last night as I was going to bed. It's my terrible memory for names.

Fascinating too to hear about Koussevitzky's involvement. Thanks again.