The Sound of Music

Definition

The Sound of Music is a beloved musical created by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, first performed in 1959. The show is set in Austria on the eve of World War II and follows the story of a young postulant named Maria, who becomes a governess for the seven children of Captain Georg von Trapp. This musical captures the essence of the Golden Age of Broadway through its memorable songs and strong character development, highlighting the importance of love, family, and resilience in the face of adversity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Sound of Music features iconic songs such as 'Do-Re-Mi,' 'My Favorite Things,' and 'Edelweiss,' which have become staples in popular culture.
2. The musical was adapted into a successful film in 1965, starring Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer as Captain von Trapp, winning five Academy Awards.
3. The story is based on the real-life von Trapp family, who were musical performers in Austria before fleeing the Nazis during World War II.
4. Rodgers and Hammerstein's innovative approach to integrating music into the narrative significantly influenced the development of modern musical theater.
5. The themes of love, courage, and family values in The Sound of Music resonate across generations, making it a timeless classic.

Review Questions

• How does The Sound of Music reflect the characteristics of performance styles from its time?
  • The Sound of Music showcases performance styles typical of the Golden Age, including strong character-driven narratives and emotional musical numbers that enhance storytelling. The integration of song and dialogue is seamless, allowing for character development and progression within the plot. The production also emphasizes spectacle through choreography and set design, creating an engaging experience that captures the audience's attention while delivering poignant themes.
• Discuss the significance of Rodgers and Hammerstein's contribution to The Sound of Music within the context of influential composers.
  • Rodgers and Hammerstein's work on The Sound of Music exemplifies their groundbreaking approach to musical theater composition. They crafted songs that not only entertain but also advance the plot and deepen character development. Their ability to blend music with meaningful lyrics allows audiences to connect emotionally with the characters' journeys. This innovative method has set a standard in musical theater that continues to inspire composers today.
• Evaluate how The Sound of Music has influenced contemporary musical theater productions and audience expectations.
  • The Sound of Music has had a lasting impact on contemporary musical theater by establishing key narrative techniques that prioritize character arcs alongside musical numbers. Its emphasis on storytelling through song has shaped how modern productions are crafted, encouraging a more cohesive blend of music and narrative. Moreover, its enduring popularity has influenced audience expectations for emotional depth and relatable themes in modern musicals, paving the way for future works that resonate with similar values.

Related terms

Rodgers and Hammerstein:

A highly influential songwriting duo who revolutionized musical theater with their innovative integration of song and story, creating classics such as Oklahoma! and Carousel.

Musical Theater: A genre of theatrical performance that combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to tell a story, often reflecting cultural themes and social issues.

Golden Age Musical: A period in American musical theater roughly spanning from the 1940s to the 1960s, characterized by its focus on storytelling, elaborate production values, and memorable musical scores.