I sort of stalled out while archiving my father’s music because he started rolling his eyes and ran out of stories. There’s a phase where much of his music was for music festivals and his response for the last piece of that variety was, “What do you want me to say about this piece?” So…I’ve taken a different approach and selected the music from one of the musicals he performed in, Chonita: A Gypsy Romance (An Operetta with Music Based Upon Themes of Franz Liszt)
Dad played the part of Stefan. I know, based on operetta notes that Dad would have sung Star of Love while stepping toward Chonita. I have found a summary of the operetta posted by Tammy Howl on the occasion of a May Day celebration.
My father gave introductions for the night or the thank yous at the end because I find his notes at the back of the music.
I’ve archived his notes throughout the operetta.
As I researched the piece, I’d have to say that it was performed everywhere between 1935 and 1947, as a High School Operetta. There are many cast lists for the play published in local newspapers and on E-Yearbooks across the internet. I only wish I could find a piece on Youtube, but no such luck.
Maybe my father will be able to share some personal narratives about this one.
Dad’s performances of Chonita toured Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, Regina, the Quappelle Valley and Prince Albert in 1949.
Hello. I found your post when I was researching the operetta after finding it in a box of music belonging to my great aunt. I’ve been working on the music for a few months; and today, I recorded myself playing and singing “Star of Love”. You had mentioned that you couldn’t find a recording of it, so I thought I would share it with you. The melody is an octave higher than written because I am a soprano, but I hope you enjoy it anyway. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuEtoxaJ09Y
Oh my goodness, Rachel! I can hardly wait to share this with my father! Thank you sooo much!
Oh Rachel I cannot express to you the feelings you brought out in this old 85 year old man who played Stephan and sang that song so many years ago while attending Moose Jaw Technical High School. You played and sang it so beautifully I was carried right back on the stage. Surprisingly I knew the whole first vs. to sing along with you through my tears. Now Kath must send me all the words. Thank you Thank You for your beautiful rendition.I just loved it.
Oh…Dad…I didn’t realize that I didn’t include the music for this one. I’ll photograph them this weekend and post here. Love you…and thanks, Rachel.
Here it is 28 Nov 2018and I have just listened to your solo as I read the blog. I can only reiterate how wonderful an experience it was for me .Thank you; Thank you>
I shall treasure this all my days !!!
Sang star of love in 1943. Can’t remember all the lyrics
That’s fabulous! I wish you had a little video you could share or a photograph, scanned! My Dad is an amazing tenor!
I was named after this operetta which my father learned in high school. He changed the spelling so kids wouldn’t tease me. I earned my Bachelor of Music in vocal performance. There’s power in a name.
What a wonderful story, Shanita! I wonder if he sang the same part that my father did. Do you have his music? I really appreciate you adding to this history!
I am so glad to find this information. My husband played Stefan in 1964 for his high school musical!
Thank you for letting me know! My Dad also played the part of Stefan…likely in 1951…or a bit before that. I will always treasure having his sheet music.