Join Howard Mednick in this three-part series where he will explore the legacy of Leonard Bernstein and other great Jewish-American composers.

Howard Mednick calls himself a Classical Music DJ. He has been an avid listener of classical music for many years, studying its varied historical nuances. He has shared these insights in popular presentations on classical and orchestra music in academic and public venues throughout Toronto, and more recently in Israel

Leonard Bernstein Part 1 - Conductor, Teacher, Performer, Composer
Leonard Bernstein was perhaps the most influential person in the music world in the 20th century. He left his mark in many different aspects of music. He has left a legacy to us in both the classical and orchestral music world as well as with popular and jazz music. This session will explore many aspects of this remarkable man.

Leonard Bernstein Part 2 - West Side Story
The Broadway musical and motion picture West Side Story is perhaps Bernstein’s greatest legacy. As a musical work, it includes elements of opera, jazz and Latin American styles. It is a tragedy, a modernization of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. Yet it is full of energy, great choreography and even some comic scenes. Bernstein’s music captures it all. Believe it or not, there is also a strong Jewish element in West Side Story that you will discover. This session will present the music and drama from different performances and genres, including some clips of Bernstein conducting it himself.

Europe To America
The first half of the 20th century was a terrible time for Europe with two world wars and many revolutions. Many talented composers, particularly Jewish composers, fled in order to save their lives and the lives of their families. Many came to the United States, particularly to Hollywood, where they continued to compose music for the rapidly growing entertainment and motion picture industry. This program will present the works of a number of these talented composers. You will see how they took their traditions and classical training they learned from the European masters and developed the American music industry as we know it today.