The Sound of Music’s Julie Andrews Learned Yodeling from Real-Life Maria Von Trapp Herself

The Sound of Music is a timeless classic in musical cinema. It started as a stage musical in 1959 by Rogers and Hammerstein and later became the beloved film we all adore by 1965. Julie Andrews’ role in the movie, portraying a young woman embracing optimism amidst challenges, has captured the hearts of fans for generations. Her beautifully trained voice, honed since childhood, is often seen as the pinnacle of talent from that era.

The real-life inspiration behind the story, Maria Von Trapp, initially penned her family’s journey in the 1949 book, “The Story of the Trapp Family Singers.” Although the Von Trapp family possessed remarkable talent, their training differed significantly from Andrews’. Nonetheless, in 1965, they charmed audiences worldwide in The Sound of Music.

In a delightful clip from The Julie Andrews Hour in 1973, viewers witnessed a heartwarming moment where the genuine Maria von Trapp imparted a lesson in Austrian yodeling to Julie Andrews, who portrayed her in the film.

The video captures a magical exchange between the two, showcasing von Trapp’s expertise in the traditional art of yodeling. As an Austrian native, her instruction adds an authentic touch to Andrews’ performance. This special interaction not only highlights the bond between the real-life inspiration and the actor but also offers viewers a glimpse into the cultural richness of Austria through its music.

Despite the passage of time, the video is rewatched each year and viewers couldn’t stop giving it positive comments.

One person wrote, “Can we all just take a moment to appreciate these two amazing women? Julie Andrews is amazing for being an incredible actress and a decent person not drugged up and horrid like most actors, and Maria Von Trapp, for just being an amazing, strong and incredible woman. I mean look at how humble she is, the woman is a baroness and so unpretentious!”