Introduction
Once upon a mattress is one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals. It is based on the fairytale of “The Princess and the Pea” by Hans Christian Andersen and tells the story of a prince who must find true love before he can take his throne as king. One of its most popular songs is “Song Of Love” which has become one of the most beloved songs from this musical over time. In this article, we will discuss what makes this song so special and how it can be played on various instruments such as piano or guitar.
Overview of Once Upon A Mattress Song Of Love
The song “Song Of Love” was composed by Mary Rodgers and lyrics were written by Marshall Barer for the 1959 Broadway production of Once upon a mattress. The song is sung during the second act of the show when Prince Dauntless (played by Jack Gilford) finally finds true love with Lady Larken (played by Carol Burnett). It is an upbeat love duet that expresses their joy at finding each other despite all odds. The song has become an iconic part of Once upon a mattress and has been featured in many revivals and film adaptations over time.
Musical Analysis of Once Upon A Mattress Song Of Love
Musically, “Song Of Love” is written in the key of C major with a moderate tempo of 120 beats per minute. It follows an AABA form with each section repeating twice before transitioning to the next section. The melody itself consists mostly of eighth notes with occasional quarter notes sprinkled in for emphasis. The accompaniment follows a steady 8th-note pattern throughout, creating an energetic atmosphere that builds up to the climax near the end where both characters sing together in harmony.
Themes in the Song
The main theme explored in “Song Of Love” is that true love conquers all obstacles, no matter how insurmountable they may seem at first glance. This idea is expressed through both characters’ singing about their joy at finally being able to be together despite all odds stacked against them. Additionally, there are also themes about destiny, trust, and hope which are expressed through both characters singing about how they are meant to be together despite any challenges they may face along their journey together.
Popularity and Versions of the Song
Since its debut in 1959, “Song Of Love” has become one of the most popular songs from Once upon a mattress and has been featured in many revivals and film adaptations over time. Additionally, there have been numerous versions recorded over time including those performed by Barbra Streisand & Robert Goulet (1966), Bernadette Peters & Martin Vidnovic (1996), Sutton Foster & Jonathan Groff (2005), etc. All these versions have helped make this song even more popular among fans today as it continues to be one of their favorite songs from this classic musical .
How to Play the Song on Piano/Guitar/Other Instruments
Playing “Song Of Love” on piano or guitar requires some basic knowledge but can still be relatively easy for beginners if they take some time to practice it beforehand. On piano, it requires playing simple chords such as C major, G major, F major, D minor 7th etc., while on guitar it requires playing simple barre chords such as E minor 7th or A minor 7th etc.. Additionally, other instruments like ukulele or banjo can also be used to play this song since its melody isn’t too complex either way .
Conclusion
In conclusion , “Song Of Love” from Once upon a mattress remains one of Broadway’s most beloved musicals due to its timeless message about true love conquering all obstacles no matter how insurmountable they may seem at first glance . Its popularity has only grown over time thanks to numerous versions recorded over time as well as its easy accessibility when learning how to play it on various instruments such as piano or guitar . Therefore , whether you’re looking for an inspiring love duet or just want something fun to play around with , then look no further than “Song Of Love” from Once upon a mattress !
References
1) https://www.mtishowspace.com/once-upon-a-mattress/song-of-love 2) https://genius.com/Mary-rodgers-song-of-love-lyrics 3) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfVq_3L4nX