Bradley Cooper immersed himself in the world of music conducting for his role as Leonard Bernstein in the film "Maestro," which he also co-wrote and directed. Drawing on childhood memories of pretending to conduct music, Cooper sought authenticity rather than imitation in his portrayal. He worked closely with conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin to develop his own style on the podium, emphasizing the emotional connection to the music and the orchestra. The film explores Bernstein's professional legacy and personal life, including his sexuality, which has been influential in the classical music community. Cooper's dedication to the role included learning to conduct complex pieces like Mahler's "Symphony No. 2" and capturing the essence of Bernstein's dynamic conducting style.
Bradley Cooper discusses the challenging process of filming a pivotal scene in his film "Maestro," where he portrays composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein. The scene, shot in Ely Cathedral, features Cooper conducting Gustav Mahler's Resurrection Symphony in a single, six-minute take with a live orchestra and choir. Cooper worked with leading conductors Gustavo Dudamel and Yannick Séguin for years to prepare for the scene, but encountered difficulties during the shoot. However, he persevered and managed to successfully capture the moment, resulting in a powerful and memorable experience.
Yannick Nézet-Séguin, a renowned conductor, worked as a consultant on the Leonard Bernstein biopic 'Maestro' and helped train actor Bradley Cooper to convincingly conduct like Bernstein. Nézet-Séguin praised Cooper's dedication and musicality, stating that he could be a great real-life conductor. Cooper spent six years learning to conduct Mahler's Second Symphony for a pivotal scene in the film, which featured members of the London Symphony Orchestra. Nézet-Séguin believes that music will continue to be a part of Cooper's life and would welcome him to guest conduct the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Bradley Cooper reveals that his fascination with conductor and composer Leonard Bernstein began as a child watching cartoons like Tom and Jerry and Bugs Bunny conducting. Cooper discusses his new film "Maestro," where he plays Bernstein and also directs, exploring the complex relationship between Bernstein and his wife, Felicia Montealegre. The film delves into Bernstein's affairs with men, a bold subject for its historical context. Cooper describes the challenge and thrill of conducting, which he did live for the film, and shares his emotional reaction to the support he received from Bernstein's family during the film's production.
Bradley Cooper spent six years learning how to conduct just over six minutes of music in the style of Leonard Bernstein for his film "Maestro." Cooper recorded a crucial scene live on set, recreating Bernstein's famous conducting of the London Symphony Orchestra at the Ely Cathedral in 1976. The scene showcases Bernstein's musical genius and Cooper's staggering performance. Cooper thanked his teachers, including Metropolitan Opera director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, for helping him fine-tune the performance. "Maestro" opens in select theaters on Nov. 22 and will be available to stream on Netflix starting Dec. 20.
Bradley Cooper reveals that he spent six years learning how to conduct for his role as Leonard Bernstein in the Netflix film "Maestro." Cooper, who also directed, produced, and co-wrote the feature, expressed his initial fear and the extensive preparation he underwent to master a six-minute sequence of conducting the London Symphony Orchestra. The film received a standing ovation at its debut and has been praised for its directing style and inclusion of a Dream Ballet film technique. "Maestro" premiered at the Venice Film Festival and is set to release in theaters on November 22, followed by a streaming release on Netflix on December 20.
A documentary about Otto Klemperer, a renowned conductor who died 50 years ago, sheds light on his unique approach to music. Klemperer was not interested in sentimentality or rhetoric, but rather focused on the signification of the form of music. His recordings, released by Warner to mark the anniversary of his death, continue to stun listeners with their radical and distinctive interpretations. Despite facing mental illness, exile, and other tribulations, Klemperer's dedication to upending tradition and his unwavering commitment to the music remain evident in his performances.
Gustavo Dudamel, the world-renowned conductor, led the New York Philharmonic in Mahler's Ninth Symphony during his first rehearsal with the orchestra since being named its next music director. Although he won't take the podium until 2026, Dudamel's five days with the Philharmonic this month were an unofficial start. He urged the musicians to embrace Mahler's operatic impulses and varied style during intense rehearsals, and was greeted as a rock star by the orchestra, with musicians lining up for selfies and hugs.
Gustavo Dudamel conducted the New York Philharmonic in Mahler's Ninth Symphony, his first performance with the orchestra since being named its next music director. Dudamel achieved a casualness in his conducting, leading with easy flow and briskness, avoiding exaggerated solemnity. While the performance lacked a certain degree of personality and depth, the final minutes were sensible and pleasantly even-keeled. The program continues through Sunday at David Geffen Hall.
