Stephen Sondheim’s Lost College Musical ‘Phinney’s Rainbow’ Rediscovered
Discovery of Lost Recordings
While整理ing his office, journalist Paul Salsini stumbled upon a CD that had fallen through a crack. Upon playing it, he realized he was listening to live recordings of Stephen Sondheim’s long-lost college musical, “Phinney’s Rainbow.” The full 19 tracks, totaling over an hour, had never been previously released.
Sondheim’s Early Work
Sondheim wrote the music for “Phinney’s Rainbow” in 1948 as an 18-year-old sophomore at Williams College. The book and lyrics were co-written with fellow student Josiah T.S. Horton. The musical satirizes college life at Swindlehurst Prep, a fictionalized version of Williams.
Themes and Leitmotifs
In “Phinney’s Rainbow,” Sondheim explores themes that would become central to his later work, such as longing and love. The song “How Do I Know?” is a precursor to many of Sondheim’s songs that express a yearning for affection and connection.
Sondheim’s Juvenilia
Sondheim was initially reluctant to have his early works released, believing they were not of sufficient quality. However, experts believe that these works, including “Phinney’s Rainbow,” provide valuable insights into his artistic development.
Rediscovery and Preservation
The discovery of the “Phinney’s Rainbow” recordings has sparked excitement among Sondheim scholars and fans. Salsini plans to donate his copy to the Sondheim Research Collection in Milwaukee for public listening. Additional copies may also be in circulation.
Sondheim’s Legacy
Sondheim’s impact on musical theater is immense. His works, including “West Side Story,” “Gypsy,” and “Sweeney Todd,” have redefined the genre. His early works, such as “Phinney’s Rainbow,” offer a glimpse into his creative process and the themes that would shape his illustrious career.
The Value of ‘Juvenilia’
Sondheim believed that it was important for audiences to see early and imperfect works to understand the growth of artists. The rediscovery of “Phinney’s Rainbow” serves as a reminder that even the most renowned artists have their roots in humble beginnings.
Additional Details
- “Phinney’s Rainbow” was inspired by “Finian’s Rainbow” and then-Williams president James Phinney Baxter III.
- The overture and the song “How Do I Know?” have been featured in various anthologies and albums.
- Mark Eden Horowitz, a senior music specialist at the Library of Congress, assisted in tracking down a second copy of the recordings.
- The Sondheim Research Collection is a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts of Sondheim’s work.
Significance of the Discovery
The rediscovery of “Phinney’s Rainbow” not only adds to the body of Sondheim’s work but also provides a unique opportunity to explore the origins of his genius. It is a testament to the enduring power of music and the importance of preserving artistic heritage.
