'Seymour: An Introduction' A Review

Seymour: An Introduction is a documentary about classical pianist Seymour Bernstein. The film gives a brief overview of his life- childhood, his time in the Korean War, his career as a concert pianist, his change in career from performer to teacher at age 50- but focuses mostly on his music, his views on creativity, and his overall life philosophy.

The title is apt in that the film is brief and the portrait of Bernstein is cursory. Watching the film we don't get to know Bernstein but that may not be a failing of the film but a simple function of Bernstein himself. Living in a small one bedroom apartment, the scope of his day to day life could be described as spartan. He teaches, he composes, he sleeps on a fold-out couch.

The most compelling moments are when Bernstein interacts with students and former students. When we see him instruct we get a clear sense of the scope and dimension of music, the dedication and skill it requires. When he reminisces we get a sense of his impact. Bernstein also offers some interesting thoughts on commercializing art, craft vs. talent, discipline, and creative output.

Some cogent ideas for artistic types, may not offer much for those more left brained.

Rent It.