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In a recent Los Angeles screening of the upcoming film "Maestro," actor Bradley Cooper made a startling revelation that he spent six years meticulously honing his conducting skills to authentically portray the legendary composer Leonard Bernstein in the biopic.
Cooper, who has garnered acclaim for his acting prowess and directorial debut in "A Star Is Born," confessed that a particular scene in "Maestro" filled him with such apprehension that he embarked on a six-year journey to master the art of conducting.
The scene in question, spanning six minutes, recreates Bernstein's electrifying performance conducting the London Symphony Orchestra at Ely Cathedral in 1976. Cooper's dedication to portraying Bernstein's conducting style with utmost accuracy led him to immerse himself in the world of conducting for six years.
"I was so worried about that scene because we were doing it live," Cooper explained. "It was a recording with the London Symphony Orchestra. I was recorded live, I had to conduct. I spent six years learning how to conduct six minutes and 21 seconds." To prepare for this demanding role, Cooper diligently studied recordings of Bernstein's conducting and sought guidance from experienced teachers who provided him with unwavering support.
"I was terrified, absolutely terrified," Cooper admitted. "So much so that I probably wouldn't have been able to enjoy these scenes if I hadn't studied so much."
Applause of 7 minutes at the premiere in Venice
Cooper's unwavering commitment to embodying Bernstein's conducting style exemplifies his dedication to his craft and his passion for bringing the iconic composer's life story to the silver screen.
His six-year journey of mastering conducting serves as a testament to the lengths to which he is willing to go to deliver an authentic and captivating performance. Resounding applause echoed through Sala Grande for seven minutes following the world premiere of the biographical drama chronicling the life of the legendary composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein at the 80th Venice Film Festival.
Despite the ongoing strike by Hollywood screenwriters and actors, which prevented director and lead actor Bradley Cooper, as well as his co-star Carey Mulligan, from attending the premiere at the Lido, their absence did not diminish the rousing reception the film garnered