“Genius” is an often-overused word – but it’s hard to avoid it when Leonard Bernstein enters the conversation. Bernstein’s artistic whirlwind was not contained or defined by a single form of expression. A composer, lyricist, conductor, pianist, writer, teacher and philanthropist, his work behind the pen, podium and baton — even the piano — was infused with a passion for diverse musical styles and a combination of intense introspection and keen societal observation.
Why, after so many decades, do his works still resonate? Undoubtably, there are his instantly recognizable tunes that are practically cultural touchstones. You may have never seen “West Side Story” or even know the names of the songs, but you go “A-ha” when you hear “Maria,” “Tonight” or “Somewhere” in a commercial, movie or TV show.
Beyond the music is a deeper reason why Bernstein’s works still matter: the meaning. Bernstein excelled at the “iron fist in the velvet glove,” especially in his deeply introspective “Trouble in Tahiti.” When you listen at home or in the theater, he draws you in with his catchy tunes. Once he has your attention, Bernstein hits you with the hard questions he asked about himself and the world around him — and the equally stark answers that are still relevant today.
The power of Bernstein’s music and meaning will be on display on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m. for Boheme Opera NJ’s concert event “Bernstein: Opera to Broadway” at the Mildred & Ernest E. Mayo Concert Hall on the campus of The College of New Jersey.
The first work on the program is Bernstein’s opera “Trouble in Tahiti.” From a music perspective, he tapped into the era’s playlist, from jazz to television commercials, to ensure his audience’s attention. The story is a fictionalization of his parents’ fraught relationship and the vehicle for a hard look at the societal norm of “putting on a happy face” — something that, today, is a social media reality. We feel compelled, if not shamed, to hide our true selves, feelings and motivations because we’re “supposed” to live the kind of lives we see others leading — even if they, too, are playing the same game.
Following “Trouble in Tahiti” are performances of songs from Bernstein’s big Broadway hits, “West Side Story,” “Candide” and “On the Town” — where, again, the music delivers the meaning. “West Side Story” is especially poignant in its eternal themes of idealized romance, love at first sight, doomed lovers from different worlds and, sadly, class and racial prejudice.
Feel the power and genius of Leonard Bernstein in “Bernstein: Opera to Broadway” on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m. Visit www.bohemeopera.org/bernstein-opera-to-broadway for tickets and information.
