Research Project: "Soliloquy" in Carousel
MUSI 730 - Gerber - Summary of Final Paper - 4.25.2017
Kokas, Veronica. “ ‘Pink and White’ and Everything in Between---A Musical Analysis and Examination of Performance Practice Issues Related to Carousel’s ‘Soliloquy’ ”.
Summary
In this document, the author explores the compositional process of Rodgers and Hammerstein in the formation of Carousel, specifically focusing on the development of the musical number “Soliloquy” and performance practice issues relating to the song. The author provides historical background on the musical itself, discusses the known drafts of “Soliloquy”, and proceeds to analyze four contrasting performances of the piece. Kokas analyzes the performances, and supplies insight as to how less experienced singers can effectively perform the piece.
The most interesting sections of the document are the discussions of the genesis of the piece, and the differences between the three drafts of the song. It is interesting that Richard Rodgers incorporated a section of “Soliloquy” into the second draft, that was later deleted without explanation. In the deleted section, Billy imagines himself bragging about his little girl to his drinking buddies---while this portion of the song is missing from published editions of “Soliloquy”, John Raitt (who originated the role of Billy) included the section in performances of the piece.
Additionally, the author’s analysis of selected performances of “Soliloquy” are especially useful to singers studying the musical number. Kokas analyzes four distinctly different performances of the piece, by John Raitt, Gordon MacRae, Nathan Gunn, and Robert Goulet, respectively. The author analyzes each performance, and provides insight as to issues in style and varying artistic interpretation. Some of the performance practice issues discussed include notes on the tessitura of the piece as they pertain to John Raitt’s rendition, differences in vocal style with regard to Nathan Gunn’s performance, and alterations in rhythm in the Robert Goulet recording. The author’s discussion of these contrasting performances provides useful information to singers that may be interested in performing “Soliloquy”, and increases awareness of certain nuances within the piece.
Sources
Kokas draws on primary sources such as the score for Carousel, in addition to the video recordings analyzed in the document. Secondary sources, such as dissertations on the compositional process of Carousel and reviews of performances of the musical are also included in the document.