“So Long, Farewell,” a song from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1959 musical “The Sound of Music,” holds a special place for its portrayal by the Von Trapp children in the original Broadway production.
Kathy Dunn, David Gress, Evanna Lien, Mary Susan Locke, Lauri Peters, Marilyn Rogers, Joseph Stewart, and Frances Underhill brought this song to life with their youthful voices and innocent charm. Alongside “Do-Re-Mi,” it stands out as the only songs prominently featuring the Von Trapp children.
This simple composition makes clever use of the children’s higher voices and their natural innocence. The song revolves around a single chorus, repeated throughout in a bright major key, designed perfectly for children.
Its simplicity and catchy melody have made it a beloved part of the musical’s repertoire, resonating with both young listeners and those young at heart.
Many YouTube channels have reuploaded the video of this song and gained significant attention. One of these channels has even hit over 16 million views and received numerous compliments, with many viewers expressing nostalgia when watching them.
One wrote, “It’s sad the way no one is actually appreciating the music. I’m dying over the cuteness of Gretal, and simply this musical. I even like the captain. Maria, Gretal and Curt are my favorites! And I think half the people who have watched this video have never seen this musical.Sound of music is just a beautiful musical.”
Another added, “At the end when the guests sing goodbye back to the children always brings a tear to my eye and a smile to my face the way they sound the harmonization is just amazing.”