Letters: Bernstein's Biography

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In the review of Leonard Bernstein's unflattering biography ((MUSIC, May 18)), Michael Walsh's dismissal of Lenny as a musical self-parody is absurd. The excellent Vienna Beethoven cycle, along with Bernstein's first-rate Schumann, Haydn and Mahler, is testimony to Walsh's aesthetic silliness. Although several of Bernstein's recent compositions have been less than successful, that situation does not constitute proof of Bernstein's artistic irrelevance. Babe Ruth struck out more than most hitters, yet his niche in Cooperstown, N.Y., remains secure. Whatever his personal flaws, Bernstein is a powerful, worthwhile musical presence.

Philip Greenfield

Annapolis

Among Bernstein's accomplishments is his greatness as a teacher. Anyone who watches a tape of one of his children's concerts will never again have to ask what makes a great teacher.

Richard F. Gregory

Pittsburgh

We are too close in time to assess Bernstein's compositions accurately. His music's eclecticism and its peculiarly American-sounding angst are qualities that have endeared Bernstein to his listening public and alienated him from his critics. Bernstein, along with Aaron Copland, is the most performed contemporary American composer.

Roger Kaza

St. Louis Symphony Orchestra

St. Louis