In 1988, composer Bill Banfield was a graduate student at the University of Michigan when he had the opportunity to meet the great Leonard Bernstein. In a 1992 essay, Bill wrote about his extraordinary experience one cold Michigan evening.
“There was something about that man and his music, there was something in him that was me and what I wanted to become. I was not only influenced by just his music, but also with his personality, fire and passion as a musical being.”
“I idolized Leonard Bernstein so you can imagine the joy I felt to get a chance to see him live in person. I couldn't wait. I rehearsed over and over what I would say. Would he be able to listen to my music? Would he encourage me as an up and coming young composer? Would he care that I was a ‘black composer'?”
At the boring cocktail party after the thrill of watching Bernstein conduct, Bill and two buddies had a “bright idea.” They invited him to make a break for it and go have some fun. Bernstein summoned his limo driver and off they went!
After landing at a local bar, the three young men and the god they adored sat and talked. “He seemed so genuinely interested in hearing what was on our minds. For some strange reason Lenny gravitated towards me. He encouraged me to express what he called my blackness. He said it was beautiful and what made me different…Those who are in touch with art in the real sense are also in touch with people in the real sense.”
“Music and art are the expressions of the heart and soul of people. Lenny knew this. When he was ready to leave I walked with him, arm in arm, to his car. I hugged him and told him how much I appreciated him. The black limousine whisked him away. I had the chance to share the meaning of life and art and culture with one of the greatest musical personalities of our time near the end of his life. Farewell Lenny, I shall always love you.”
Thanks to Bill Banfield for permission to quote from his essay “Farewell to Lenny: Reflections on a Hero Beloved,” published in Black Notes: Essays Of A Musician Writing In A Post Album Age by William C. Banfield, Scarecrow Press, 2004.
The Cape Symphony honors Leonard Bernstein’s 100th birthday in American Mavericks on May 5 and 6 – and features Bill Banfield’s musical tribute to his hero “Lenny.” A limited number of tickets are still available but time is running out! Buy online or call us at 508.362.1111.
