There are moments in life when music transcends the limitations of language, speaking directly to the heart with profound truth. It offers solace in dark times, guides us through complex emotions, and elevates us to a realm of clarity, replacing confusion with honesty, peace, and joy. I consider myself fortunate to have music as a constant companion, its melodies and poetic verses continually inspiring me to communicate, learn, and ultimately appreciate the delicate nature of our existence. Among these musical treasures, “Some Enchanted Evening” stands out as a piece that perfectly encapsulates this sentiment. Throughout my career, singing this song in diverse settings and for varied audiences, I’ve consistently witnessed its remarkable ability to evoke a deeply resonant emotional response.
It’s widely acknowledged that “Some Enchanted Evening” achieved unparalleled popularity, becoming the most significant hit to emerge from any Rodgers and Hammerstein production. In this poignant solo, delivered by Emile, the lead male character in South Pacific, we are drawn into the experience of love at first sight. Emile eloquently describes the powerful impact of seeing a stranger, someone to whom he feels an undeniable attraction. He expresses a certainty of their paths crossing again, envisioning her laughter echoing in his dreams. The lyrics beautifully convey the urgency of recognizing and pursuing true love, urging listeners to “fly to her side, and make her your own.” While the message of seizing love may be timeless, it’s the fusion of the richness of the human voice with Rodgers’ masterful composition that truly amplifies its emotional depth and enduring appeal.
My artistic journey has been significantly enriched by a decade-long collaboration with Steve Blier. Our paths first crossed at Juilliard, and his coaching sessions remain among the most formative and memorable experiences of my development as a young performer. In anticipation of our upcoming program, Rodgers, Rodgers and Guettel (scheduled for November 1st and 3rd at Merkin Hall), I proposed to Steve the inclusion of a Richard Rodgers ballad. He thoughtfully selected “Some Enchanted Evening,” and I am thrilled to share the enchantment of this piece with my NYFOS family in the coming week. As you listen, I encourage you to bring tissues and allow yourself to be open to the full spectrum of emotions the song evokes.
To truly appreciate the definitive interpretation of Emile, and the inherent magic within “Some Enchanted Evening,” one must listen to Ezio Pinza. As the original Emile in South Pacific, Pinza, an opera singer, possessed a breathtaking bass-baritone voice. His performance is characterized by a warm, caramel-like tone, consistently even vibrato, and impeccable style, setting a benchmark for all who follow.
