Watch The Archive: Isaac Stern and the LSO

The Archive: Isaac Stern and the LSO is a documentary film that delves into the life and work of renowned violinist Isaac Stern and his relationship with the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). Directed by Christopher Nupen, the film is a treasure trove of archival footage, interviews and performance clips that capture the essence of one of the most important musical partnerships of the 20th century.

Isaac Stern was born in 1920 in Ukraine and moved to San Francisco with his family when he was just a baby. He showed an early interest in music and began playing the violin at the age of six. By the time he was 15, he had made his professional debut and was recognized as a prodigious talent. Over the course of his career, Stern became one of the most celebrated violinists of his generation, renowned for his technical prowess, musical intelligence and passionate performances.

The film begins by tracing Stern's early years, with footage of him as a young boy practicing his violin in his family's living room. We see him grow into a virtuoso, performing with some of the most famous orchestras in the world and collaborating with other leading musicians, such as the cellist Pablo Casals and the pianist Glenn Gould.

However, the heart of the film is the relationship between Stern and the LSO. Stern first played with the orchestra in 1960, and their collaboration would span several decades. The film showcases some of their most memorable performances, including concerts in London, New York and Jerusalem. We see Stern and the LSO tackling some of the most challenging works in the violin repertoire, such as Beethoven's Violin Concerto and Brahms' Double Concerto. Stern's playing is electrifying, and the orchestra responds with a depth of feeling and technical precision that is remarkable.

The film also includes interviews with key figures in the music world who worked with Stern and the LSO, such as conductor Andre Previn and violinist Pinchas Zukerman. They offer insights into the creative process that led to some of the greatest musical collaborations of the 20th century.

Throughout the film, we get a sense of Stern's character and his deep passion for music. He was not just a virtuoso but an advocate for the importance of music in our lives. He was a key figure in promoting music education and supporting young musicians, particularly those in Israel, where he played an important role in helping to establish the Jerusalem Music Centre.

The Archive: Isaac Stern and the LSO is a delightful and engaging documentary that celebrates the artistry and passion of one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century. The film's archival footage and interviews offer a unique insight into the creative process behind some of the most remarkable music collaborations in history. For lovers of classical music, this film is a must-see.

The Archive: Isaac Stern and the LSO is a 2008 music movie with a runtime of 51 minutes.