This brilliant and revealing self-portrait collects Bernstein's private notes, letters, essays, and musical writings to convey, as never before, the incredible energy, talent, and genius of a man who has confirmed the maturity and originality of American music. Over 100 photos.

Leonard Bernstein (August 25, 1918 – October 14, 1990) was an American composer, conductor, author, music lecturer, and pianist. He was among the first conductors born and educated in the US to receive worldwide acclaim. According to music critic Donal Henahan, he was "one of the most prodigiously talented and successful musicians in American history."