As a child, Bernstein was sick very often with asthma and hay fever. Perhaps due to these and many other medical conditions, Bernstein preferred to be alone. He didn't care to spend much time with his family or even with his peers. Most likely because of this self-isolation, Bernstein's passion for music developed at a young age. At

the age of ten, Leonard's family received a piano from an aunt who no longer needed it. She knew of Leonard's love for music, but I doubt she knew what a great impact this gift would have, not only on Leonard, but also on the world of music.

After the young boy began to show an interest in the instrument, a neighbor offered to give him lessons, which lasted for about a year. After that year, Bernstein was no longer satisfied with his teacher, so he went out to find another one. He was referred to a teacher by the name of Miss Susan Williams and despite his father's protest, this teaching relationship with Miss Williams lasted for two years.

West Side Story was an idea by Jerome Robbins of a modern, New York style, version of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Arthur Laurents wrote the script, Bernstein was the composer and Stephen Sondheim was the lyrist. This tragic comedy premiered in August 1957. Apparently, this was another one of Bernstein's works that was finished at just in the nick of time.

Aaron Copland is regarded as being Bernstein's composing mentor. In fact, Copland was probably the most important influence on All-American music at this time. Bernstein and Copland had many similarities that may have enabled them to create the very strong bond between them. They both came from Russian/Jewish families; both men were raised in urban areas; both became involved in left wing politics; and both were homosexual. (Later, it was said that Bernstein was bisexual and he did marry and have a typical heterosexual relationship.) The relationship began with Bernstein's great admiration of Copland and from there they formed life long tie

The songs in this production have been described by many as having magic like qualities. It seems that all Americans are able to relate to this in a very personal way. It is just like watching modern society being portrayed through art in the true, raw form in which it exists. West Side Story has been said to set new standards in musical theatre.

On November 14, 1943, Bernstein debuted at Carnegie Hall as the director of the New York Philharmonic. It was a music history event to be remembered. He was only twenty-five years old and had been given only one-day notice that

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