Glitter and Be Gay: Sexuality in the Life and Music of Leonard Bernstein

Abstract

Leonard Bernstein was one of the most iconic composer-conductors of the twentieth century. Like many famous people, Bernstein had personal conflicts on and offstage. Bernstein claimed he was a homosexual, but his situation is more complex than he would have us believe. An extensive look into Bernstein's sexuality will be given to examine its impact on his life and music. Topics such as homophobia, his personal relationships, and sexuality in his music such as Songfest, Candide, and A Quiet Place will also be discussed to help explain the impact sexuality has had on Leonard Bernstein's life and music.