"Maria" is Tony's rapturous solo from West Side Story, where he repeats the name with escalating wonder over shifting harmonies. Bernstein blends jazz, Latin rhythms, and operatic passion as Tony imagines the name "Maria" transforming the world around him.
West Side Story is a landmark American musical by Leonard Bernstein (music) and Stephen Sondheim (lyrics), premiered in 1957. It transposes Romeo and Juliet to gang rivalries in Manhattan, featuring jazz, Latin, and classical influences. The medley includes beloved songs like "Maria" and "Tonight," showcasing Bernstein's innovative orchestration and Sondheim's early lyrical genius.
"Maria" is one of the most beloved songs from the groundbreaking musical West Side Story, with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. The song represents Tony's rapturous discovery of love when he first says Maria's name, transforming it into a magical, worshipful experience through Bernstein's soaring melody and Sondheim's sophisticated yet heartfelt lyrics.
