“The Music Man” is a classic musical celebrated for its memorable score. This list provides a comprehensive overview of all the songs featured in this beloved show, divided by act for easy navigation. Discover the musical numbers that bring the story of Harold Hill and River City to life.
Act One Songs
Act One introduces us to the bustling town of River City and the arrival of the charismatic con man, Harold Hill.
- Rock Island – A unique opening number delivered in a rhythmic, spoken style by Charlie Cowell and Traveling Salesmen, setting the scene and introducing the fast-paced world of salesmen.
- Iowa Stubborn – The Townspeople of River City proudly declare their traditional and somewhat resistant nature in this ensemble piece.
- (Ya Got) Trouble – Harold Hill’s signature song, a fast-talking, persuasive number where he warns the townspeople about the “trouble” that will ensue without a boys’ band.
- Piano Lesson – A charming scene in the Paroo household featuring Marian, Mrs. Paroo, and Amaryllis, showcasing Marian’s piano teaching and a glimpse into their family dynamics.
- Goodnight, My Someone – Marian Paroo reveals her romantic and hopeful side in this beautiful, gentle ballad, dreaming of her ideal man.
- Seventy-Six Trombones – A high-energy and iconic march, where Harold Hill excites the children (and the town) with the vision of a magnificent boys’ band and their instruments.
- Sincere – The Barbershop Quartet (Olin Britt, Oliver Hix, Ewart Dunlop, Jacey Squires) hilariously attempt to rehearse, showcasing their lack of musical ability while comically singing about sincerity.
- The Sadder-But-Wiser Girl – Harold Hill and Marcellus Washburn discuss Harold’s philosophy on women, highlighting his con man persona and Marcellus’s knowing perspective.
- Pickalittle (Talk-a-Little) – The Pickalittle Ladies, led by Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn, engage in gossip and humorous small talk, displaying the town’s social dynamics.
- Goodnight, Ladies – The Barbershop Quartet returns with a more successful and harmonious rendition of “Goodnight, Ladies,” demonstrating their slow but steady progress.
- Marian The Librarian – Harold Hill’s enthusiastic pursuit of Marian is showcased in this playful and energetic number, blending fast-paced verses with a romantic chorus.
- My White Knight – Marian Paroo expresses her desires for a man who is not just charming but also possesses deeper, more noble qualities in this introspective song.
- The Wells Fargo Wagon – Young Winthrop Paroo, along with Gracie Shinn and the Townspeople, eagerly anticipate the arrival of the Wells Fargo Wagon, hoping it will bring instruments for the band.
Act Two Songs
Act Two sees the development of relationships and the culmination of Harold Hill’s plans, with a mix of lively and emotional musical pieces.
- It’s You – The Barbershop Quartet, along with Eulalie and the Pickalittle Ladies, sing a sweet and simple love song, showcasing their improved vocal harmony.
- Shipoopi – A lively and energetic dance number led by Marcellus, celebrating the joy of small-town living and carefree fun, involving Harold, Marian, and the Townspeople.
- Pickalittle (Talk-a-Little) (reprise) – The Pickalittle Ladies briefly reprise their gossipy tune, adding a touch of familiar humor.
- Lida Rose – The Barbershop Quartet delivers a smooth and romantic ballad, demonstrating their significant musical improvement throughout the show.
- Will I Ever Tell You – Marian Paroo grapples with her growing feelings for Harold Hill, expressing her inner conflict and burgeoning love in this heartfelt song.
- Gary, Indiana – Winthrop, Mrs. Paroo, and Marian sing about their dream destination of Gary, Indiana, highlighting Winthrop’s enthusiasm and the family’s aspirations.
- It’s You (reprise) – The Townspeople and Children of River City joyfully reprise “It’s You,” celebrating the positive changes in their town.
- Till There Was You – A beautiful and tender duet between Marian and Harold, expressing their deepening love and connection in one of the musical’s most iconic songs.
- Seventy-six Trombones/Goodnight, My Someone (reprise) – A clever and romantic counterpoint reprise, blending the energetic “Seventy-Six Trombones” with the gentle melody of “Goodnight, My Someone,” sung by Harold and Marian.
- Till There Was You (reprise) – Harold Hill reprises “Till There Was You,” solidifying his emotional transformation.
- Finale – The entire Company comes together for a final, uplifting number, celebrating community and the transformative power of music in River City.
This list provides a complete overview of the songs in “The Music Man,” showcasing the variety and charm of Meredith Willson’s timeless score.
