Bernstein Beyond West Side Story
Kenneth Korn (Music Educator) A retired music teacher of more than 35 years, Kenneth Korn is a graduate of the Crane School of Music with a masters degree in music education. Kenneth Korn presented a lecture on August 10 at 2 p.m. about Jewish composer Leonard Bernstein and his many contributions to music and theater.

This lecture covered Bernstein's broad contributions to the American cultural landscape; his work as the conductor and music director of the NY Philharmonic, his innovative Young People's Concerts, and some of his lesser-known compositions. Bernstein was also somewhat unique among 20th century composers in composing serious religious music, and the lecture spent time studying his Jeremiah Symphony, Chichester Psalms, Kaddish Symphony and his Mass. Late in his life, Leonard Bernstein feared he would be remembered for "West Side Story" and little else. While the Sharks and the Jets are an indelible part of our culture, many of Bernstein's other accomplishments were in danger of being lost to history.

The lecture, sponsored by the JCF, was free to attend and open to the public. Light refreshments were served. The JCF office could be contacted for more information at office@jewishelmira.org, or 607-734-8122.