Rodgers & Hammerstein were a highly influential and successful musical theatre duo known for their collaboration on many classic Broadway musicals. Here are some interesting facts about them and the song "Edelweiss":
Collaboration: Richard Rodgers (music) and Oscar Hammerstein II (lyrics) first teamed up in 1943 to create the musical "Oklahoma!" This collaboration marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would produce several iconic musicals.
"The Sound of Music": "Edelweiss" is a song from the musical "The Sound of Music," which was one of the last collaborations between Rodgers & Hammerstein. The musical opened on Broadway in 1959 and was later adapted into a beloved film in 1965.
Austrian National Flower: The song "Edelweiss" is a heartfelt ballad that captures a sense of nostalgia and love for Austria. The edelweiss is a small white flower that grows in the Alps and is considered a symbol of the country. In the context of the musical, the song is used to express Captain von Trapp's patriotic feelings for Austria.
Not Traditional Folk Song: While "Edelweiss" has a timeless and folk-like quality, it was actually composed by Rodgers & Hammerstein specifically for the musical. It was written in the style of a traditional Austrian song to fit seamlessly into the story.
Final Show for Hammerstein: "The Sound of Music" was Oscar Hammerstein II's final musical before his death in 1960. The song "Edelweiss" is often seen as a poignant farewell and a reflection of his love for the craft of musical theatre and his partnership with Richard Rodgers.
Christopher Plummer's Connection: In the film adaptation of "The Sound of Music," Captain von Trapp (played by Christopher Plummer) performs "Edelweiss." Plummer's singing was dubbed by Bill Lee in the film, as Plummer himself wasn't confident in his singing abilities.
Cultural Impact: "Edelweiss" has become one of the most recognizable and enduring songs from "The Sound of Music." It's often associated with themes of nostalgia, love for one's homeland, and a sense of longing.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Edelweiss" has been covered by numerous artists and translated into various languages. Its universal themes of love and patriotism have contributed to its popularity across cultures.
Legacy: The legacy of Rodgers & Hammerstein lives on through their timeless musicals and memorable songs like "Edelweiss." Their contributions to musical theatre have had a lasting impact on the genre and continue to be celebrated by audiences around the world.
"Edelweiss" remains a touching and evocative song that captures the essence of the musical and the emotions of its characters, making it a beloved piece of musical theatre history.