Music of the Heart (1999) — Miramax Collector's Series DVD
Based on the inspiring true story of violin teacher Roberta Guaspari, Music of the Heart follows a newly single mother who rebuilds her life by teaching violin to children in East Harlem, New York City. Facing skepticism, budget cuts, and daunting personal challenges, Roberta refuses to abandon her students or the music program that has given them confidence and opportunity. Her determination leads to an extraordinary effort to keep music education alive.
Academy Award winner Meryl Streep stars in this moving drama about the power of music, dedicated teachers, community support, and the belief that every child deserves a chance to learn.
Cast & Characters
- Meryl Streep — Roberta Guaspari
- Angela Bassett — Janet Williams
- Aidan Quinn — Brian Turner
- Cloris Leachman — Assunta Guaspari
- Gloria Estefan — Isabel Vasquez
- Jane Leeves — Dorothea von Haeften
- Josh Pais — Dennis Rausch
- Kieran Culkin — Alexi, age 15
- Charlie Hofheimer — Nick, age 17
Hollywood Connections & Trivia
Based on a real teacher: Roberta Guaspari helped establish a violin program for public school students in East Harlem, bringing classical music education to children who might otherwise have lacked access.
Documentary connection: Guaspari's work was also featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary Small Wonders (1995), which helped inspire this dramatized feature film.
Meryl Streep's performance: Streep learned violin technique for the role and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her portrayal of Guaspari.
Wes Craven's surprising change of pace: Director Wes Craven, best known for A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream, directed this inspirational drama—a major departure from his horror-film work.
Gloria Estefan: The Grammy-winning singer and songwriter appears as Isabel Vasquez, bringing a genuine musical background to the ensemble.
Angela Bassett: Bassett, who portrayed Tina Turner in What's Love Got to Do with It, plays school administrator Janet Williams.
Cloris Leachman: The Oscar-winning actress appeared in The Last Picture Show, Young Frankenstein, and The Mary Tyler Moore Show.
Classical music stars: The story culminates in a benefit concert at Carnegie Hall, with renowned violinists including Isaac Stern and Itzhak Perlman associated with the real-life fundraising effort.
Academy Award recognition: The film received nominations for Best Actress (Meryl Streep) and Best Original Song, “Music of My Heart,” performed by Gloria Estefan and *NSYNC.
Music education: The film highlights the discipline, creativity, and community that can grow from teaching children to play an instrument.
Product Details
- Title: Music of the Heart
- Release year: 1999
- Edition: Miramax Collector's Series
- Director: Wes Craven
- Format: DVD
- Genre: Drama / Biography / Music / Inspirational
- Condition: Used / Pre-owned
- UPC: 717951004956
Condition: Pre-owned DVD; disc and packaging may show normal handling or shelf wear.
Digital code disclaimer: A digital code may be present with a used item, but it is not guaranteed. Any included code may have expired or already been redeemed.
Lori's Lots discount: Eligible purchases may qualify for the 38% lot discount, subject to store terms.