Bernard Herrmann: The Man Behind the Music

Bernard Herrmann is considered to be one of the great musical geniuses in history. He composed some of the most beautiful music ever heard, from his symphonic and concerto works to film compositions for Hitchcock movies like Psycho and Vertigo. However, it seems that not every piece he wrote was deemed “perfect” by everyone - in fact, according to some accounts, Bernard got a bit prickly when someone pointed out a mistake he made! So buckle up folks: here we have an amusing look at Bernard Herrmann—the man behind the stunning music—and his occasional less-than-stellar moments as heard through stories told by those who witnessed them firsthand.

Bernard Herrmann is undoubtedly one of history's most celebrated musical geniuses. He has composed some of the most beautiful pieces of music ever heard, from his symphonic and concerto works to his famous compositions for Alfred Hitchcock movies like Psycho and Vertigo. But did you know that this musical genius had a bit of a temper? Yes, according to some accounts, Herrmann could be a bit prickly, especially when someone pointed out a mistake he had made. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the man behind the music and some of his less-than-stellar moments as told by those who witnessed them firsthand.

One of the most famous stories about Bernard Herrmann's temper occurred during his work on the 1968 film The Bride Wore Black. Apparently, the director, Francois Truffaut, suggested a change to one of Herrmann's compositions, which Herrmann didn't take too kindly to. In response, Herrmann reportedly threw the score across the room, proclaiming, I am a composer, not a bloody valet!

Another instance of Herrmann's prickliness occurred during his score for the 1951 film The Day the Earth Stood Still. Some members of the orchestra were having difficulty with a particular section of the music, and Herrmann became so frustrated that he reportedly stormed out of the recording session. He returned later, however, and the music was eventually completed to his satisfaction.

Despite his occasional outbursts, Bernard Herrmann was highly respected by his colleagues in the industry. In fact, many of his collaborators have praised him for his incredible talent and his unwavering dedication to his work. For example, Alfred Hitchcock, who worked with Herrmann on several films, once said, I tell you, ninety percent of my films were shot to his music. Wouldn't have been anything without him.

Herrmann's musical legacy lives on today, and his name continues to be celebrated by music fans around the world. From the haunting theme of Psycho to the sweeping melodies of Citizen Kane, Herrmann's music has truly stood the test of time. And while he may have had a temperamental side, his unmatched talent and contribution to the world of music will never be forgotten.

In the end, Bernard Herrmann was, without a doubt, a remarkable musician and composer. While he may have been known to have a bit of a temper, his passion for his work was undeniable, and his contributions to the world of music will be remembered for generations to come. Whether you're a die-hard fan of his film scores or simply an admirer of beautiful music, there's no denying the lasting impact that Bernard Herrmann has had on the world of music.