Leonard Bernstein is considered one of America's greatest composers. Bernstein composed great music, conducted great music, and also performed great music as a pianist. Bernstein is probably best known for his score in the production West Side Story. According to the New York Times, he was "one of the most prodigiously talented and successful musicians in American history." Having been born and raised in the United States, Bernstein was the first American to gain worldwide recognition. He is also quoted in the Encyclopedia of World Biography, which says that "his special gift for bridging the gap between the concert hall and the world of Broadway made him." one of the most glamorous musical figures of his time. "Bernstein was born on August 25, 1918 in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Bernstein was born, Louis, at the request of his grandmother, however his parents always called him Leonard; Eventually, Bernstein legally changed his name shortly after the death of his grandmother. Music fascinated Bernstein at a young age. At first, Bernstein's father resisted his pursuit, but eventually took him to concerts and supported his interest. His greatest interest in music came when he was given it as a gift. his cousin's piano.The piano had always intrigued Bernstein; after receiving the piano, Bernstein began to teach himself to play the piano which he and his sister played entire Beethoven symphonies together. Bernstein's love for music continued to blossom and seemed to be continually growing. Bernstein took music very seriously and wanted to continue learning everything he could about music. Bernstein attended the Garrison and Boston Latin School as a child. Later, Ber...... middle of paper ......edia. October 15, 1990. Web. April 14, 2011. "Leonard Bernstein - Reaching the Note | American Masters | PBS." PBS: Public Broadcasting Service. September 6, 2006. Web. April 14, 2011. "Leonard Bernstein Biography: Life, Family, Childhood, Name, Story, History, Wife, School, Old, Information, Birth, College." Encyclopedia of World Biography. Network. April 14, 2011. .Mordden, Ethan. "Another Kiss: The Broadway Musical..." Google Books. Network. 14 April 2011. .1. Charles Kaiser, The Gay Metropolis, New York City: 1940–1996.2. ^ ab Meryle Secrest (1995), Leonard Bernstein: a life.