Ultimate Guide to All the Songs in Phantom of the Opera the Musical
The music in The Phantom of the Opera is more than just a soundtrack; it’s at the core of the story. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Charles Hart, this opera musical set in the Paris Opera House has been a fixture in the West End and Broadway since 1986.
Each song draws out the emotions of characters like Christine, Raoul, and the Phantom, adding layers of depth to their relationships and inner conflicts.
In this guide we cover all the songs in The Phantom of the Opera, covering how each song contributes to the unfolding drama and the characters’ stories on stage.
Key Takeaways
- All Songs and Their Roles in the Story: Understand how each song, from “Think of Me” to “Music of the Night,” develops the plot and relationships in The Phantom of the Opera.
- Iconic Songs and Themes: Explore the emotional highs and lows of tracks like “All I Ask of You” and “The Point of No Return” that capture the complexity of the Phantom, Christine, and Raoul.
- Character Moments in Music: Discover how songs like “Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again” and “Down Once More” reveal Christine’s, Raoul’s, and the Phantom’s inner struggles and connections.
Phantom of the Opera Songs
Each song in The Phantom of the Opera reveals another layer of this complex and mysterious story. From Christine’s pure vocals to the Phantom’s haunting ballads, these songs give insight into the characters and their struggles. Here’s a look at all the key songs in the show and what they mean for the story.
Hannibal Dress Rehearsal
In this lively opening, we’re introduced to the fictional opera “Hannibal,” where Carlotta, the prima donna, leads the cast in a rehearsal. This number sets up the story, introducing the opera house’s new owners, Firmin and Andre, as well as the new patron Raoul, who is also Christine’s childhood friend.
Think of Me
When Carlotta storms off after a backdrop crashes during rehearsal, Christine is called upon to take her place in the performance. “Think of Me” is Christine’s big break and a moment where Raoul recognises her from their childhood. This touching song reflects on memories and lost time, sparking the bond between Raoul and Christine.
Angel of Music
Christine reveals to her friend Meg that she’s been receiving vocal lessons from a mysterious mentor she calls the “Angel of Music.” Believing this figure is sent by her late father, Christine is drawn into a world of illusion, unaware that her tutor is, in fact, the Phantom himself.
Little Lotte
Raoul visits Christine in her dressing room, and they recall memories from their childhood, including the song “Little Lotte,” which her father used to sing to her. This nostalgic piece rekindles their bond, though Christine believes her “Angel of Music” is real, while Raoul is more sceptical.
The Mirror
In this haunting moment, the Phantom reveals himself to Christine through her mirror. Angry at Raoul’s influence over her, he takes control, drawing Christine into his world with a reprise of Angel of Music. This moment is one of awe and fear, as she is mesmerised yet cautious.
The Phantom of the Opera
The iconic title song is a powerful duet where the Phantom and Christine explore the depths of their connection. The Phantom declares himself as the reason for Christine’s musical success, while Christine is torn between admiration and fear. This song captures the mystery and grandeur of the opera house and the darker underworld beneath it.
Music of the Night
In the Phantom’s lair, he serenades Christine with this hypnotic number, “Music of the Night.” He reveals his desire to have Christine as his muse, showing her a vision of herself in a wedding dress. This moment is both tender and unsettling as he tries to capture Christine in his world through his music.
I Remember / Stranger Than You Dreamt It
After fainting in his lair, Christine wakes up to the sound of the monkey music box playing. She sees the Phantom composing at his organ and bravely removes his mask, revealing his disfigured face. The Phantom reacts angrily but soon softens, showing a rare vulnerability as he expresses his longing for acceptance.
Notes / Prima Donna
Back in the opera house, Andre, Firmin, and Raoul are troubled by the Phantom’s demands. Through a series of notes, the Phantom insists that Christine be given the lead role instead of Carlotta. The comical back-and-forth between characters brings a lighter moment to the story amidst the tension.
Why Have You Brought Me Here?
After the Phantom sabotages Carlotta’s performance, Christine rushes to the rooftop with Raoul to confess her fears. She tries to make sense of the Phantom’s influence over her, while Raoul reassures her, though he remains unconvinced of the Phantom’s power.
All I Ask of You
Raoul and Christine share a romantic moment on the rooftop, promising each other protection and love in a duet that contrasts sharply with the Phantom’s dark world. “All I Ask of You” is a tender love song where Raoul pledges to be her light, a direct contrast to the Phantom’s intense control.
All I Ask of You (Reprise)
Overhearing their romantic exchange, the Phantom swears revenge. He repeats Christine and Raoul’s words with bitterness, vowing to use their love against them. This reprise closes the first act, hinting at the Phantom’s anger and determination.
Masquerade / Why So Silent?
Act Two opens with a vibrant masquerade ball, where everyone is in high spirits. However, the celebration is cut short when the Phantom makes a sudden appearance, demanding that Christine star in his new opera, Don Juan Triumphant. This scene shifts the mood dramatically as the Phantom asserts his control once again.
Notes / Twisted Every Way
This time, the notes from the Phantom are more unsettling. Christine feels trapped, torn between her loyalty to the Phantom and her affection for Raoul. Raoul devises a plan to trap the Phantom during the performance, adding tension as Christine grapples with her next steps.
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again
In this reflective solo, Christine visits her father’s grave, longing for guidance and struggling to move forward. The song captures her sorrow and her inner conflict, making it one of the most heartfelt pieces in the show.
Wandering Child
The Phantom appears to Christine once more, trying to lure her back to him with the promise of his musical guidance. Christine is drawn to him, but Raoul intervenes, breaking the Phantom’s spell and reminding Christine of the Phantom’s darker intentions.
Don Juan Triumphant / The Point of No Return
In the Phantom’s opera, Don Juan Triumphant, he uses the song “The Point of No Return” to express his feelings for Christine in front of the entire opera house. With lyrics laden with double meanings, the Phantom symbolically confronts Christine, testing her loyalty and pushing her to make a choice. The tension builds as Christine realises the Phantom’s true intentions.
Down Once More / Track Down This Murderer
The story reaches its climax as an angry mob hunts the Phantom. He flees with Christine to his lair, where Raoul follows. The Phantom threatens to kill Raoul unless Christine agrees to stay with him. In a pivotal moment, Christine realises the Phantom’s pain and shows him kindness, a gesture that ultimately leads him to release them both. As they leave, the Phantom is left alone, singing a final refrain of “Music of the Night.”
Overall
The Phantom of the Opera is a masterpiece not only for its story but for the power of its music. Each song in the show reveals another layer of the characters, from Christine’s innocence and growth to the Phantom’s tortured soul.
Through soaring arias and haunting ballads, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score brings the romance, drama, and tragedy of the Paris Opera House to life, making it a truly unforgettable musical experience.
For anyone planning to see the show in London’s West End, these songs will no doubt stay with you long after the final curtain falls.
FAQs
What are the most iconic songs in Phantom of the Opera?
Some of the most iconic songs include “The Phantom of the Opera”, “Music of the Night”, “All I Ask of You”, and “Masquerade”.
Who wrote the music for Phantom of the Opera?
Andrew Lloyd Webber composed the music, with Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe contributing the lyrics and libretto.
How many songs are in Phantom of the Opera?
The show features 21 main songs, each playing a significant role in the storytelling.
What is the highest note Christine sings?
Christine hits a high E6 in “The Phantom of the Opera” and a D6 in “Think of Me”.
Where is the Paris Opera House in Phantom of the Opera?
The story is set in the Paris Opera House, symbolising both splendour and the Phantom’s hidden lair beneath.
What role does Don Juan play in Phantom of the Opera?
Don Juan Triumphant is the opera written by the Phantom, which he uses to express his feelings toward Christine.
What is the final song in Phantom of the Opera?
The final number, “Down Once More / Track Down This Murderer”, is a dramatic confrontation that concludes the story.
What is the significance of the monkey music box?
The monkey music box symbolises the Phantom’s longing for innocence and acceptance, representing his loneliness.
Can I see Phantom of the Opera in London?
Yes, you can catch the show live at His Majesty’s Theatre in London’s West End.
What is Christine’s relationship with the Phantom?
Christine is drawn to the Phantom as her “Angel of Music,” but ultimately realises his dark intentions and chooses Raoul instead.
