I trust many of you have had the chance to see the recent West Side Story musical drama, directed by Steven Spielberg. You probably know that the film is a remake from a 1961 production, directed by Jerome Robbins. You may also be aware that the amazing music on the film was written by the great Leonard Bernstein.
The Romeo-and-Juliet style drama is definitely worth watching. The 2021 production’s music was beautifully performed by the LA Symphony, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. With impressive choreographies, impeccable film production and music, the movie speaks about racial discrimination, and the importance of tolerance and empathy.
Without a doubt, there are many great performances of the film’s music. One album I consider a “rare-find” is the one below. This arrangement is based on the music of West Side Story and performed by a jazz trio led by the late André Previn.
André Previn is well-known for his beautiful conducting technique and for being one of the best Orchestra Conductors of the second-half of the 20th Century. Notwithstanding his talent for classical music, Maestro Previn was no stranger to jazz, as you will be able to notice from the album shared above.
Without a doubt, great artists such as Leonard Bernstein and André Previn show that classical music culture can be versatile and exceed its traditional boundaries.
Enjoy!