Isaac Stern Feature DLR

Isaac Stern looks back at a splendid career spanning more than six decades. In addition, he has always supported talented young colleagues. The list of his protégés include such internationally-renowned names as Midori, Itzhak Perlman, and Pinchas Zukerman. Furthermore, Stern is considered a musician with considerable diplomatic skills. In 1960, he saved Carnegie Hall from the wrecking ball by convincing the New York City government to purchase the building. He then co-founded a non-profit organization that rents and runs Carnegie Hall to this day. In the 40-year history of the organization, in which Stern has always served as its president, the "Carnegie Hall Corporation" has administered the artistic and business sides of the famous concert hall. On September 23 and 24, Carnegie Hall will celebrate his 80th birthday with film screenings, special concerts and the opening of an exhibition that will remain open through January 1, 2001. Isaac Stern was born in Russia on July 21, 1920. He immigrated to the US and settled in San Francisco with his parents when he was ten months old. He started playing the violin when he was eight; and the Brahms Violin Concerto, which is played during the second half of this concert program, provided Stern's entry into a professional career 63 years ago. Georg Hirsch has the story.

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