April 1: The Sound of Music

Milestone Years

60th Anniversary: April 1, 2025
75th Anniversary: April 1, 2040
100th Anniversary: April 1, 2065

Inspiration Behind the Movie

The film is based on the Broadway musical The Sound of Music, which itself was inspired by Maria von Trapp’s memoir The Story of the Trapp Family Singers. Maria’s real-life experiences as a governess for the von Trapp children and their escape from Nazi-occupied Austria provided the foundation for this beloved adaptation.

You Might Not Know

Julie Andrews Twirled Into Film History – The iconic opening scene of Maria spinning on the mountaintop was so difficult to shoot that a helicopter’s downdraft kept knocking her over.
Christopher Plummer Called It ‘The Sound of Mucus’ – Though he later softened his stance, Plummer initially found the film too sentimental.
Real Von Trapp Family Differences – The real Maria was not as naive, the Captain was not as strict, and the family didn’t actually escape by crossing the mountains—they took a train!
‘Edelweiss’ Wasn’t an Austrian Folk Song – The song, often mistaken for a traditional tune, was written for the musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein.
The Abbey Escape Scene Had Real Nuns Watching – The extras in the abbey scene were real nuns who were delighted to take part in the film.

Food Ideas

Austrian Apple Strudel – A classic Viennese dessert, just like the von Trapps might have enjoyed.
Schnitzel with Noodles – A direct reference from “My Favorite Things.”
Lemonade (‘Tea, a Drink with Jam and Bread’) – Serve lemonade with jam-filled pastries.
Edelweiss Cupcakes – White-flowered cupcakes inspired by the famous song.
Maria’s Picnic Basket – A mix of bread, cheese, and fresh fruit for a casual themed snack.

Watch on Amazon

Release Date: April 1, 1965

Summary:
In 1930s Austria, free-spirited nun-in-training Maria is sent to be the governess for the seven children of the strict Captain von Trapp. Through music, love, and resilience, she transforms the family’s lives. As romance blossoms between Maria and the Captain, the family must also face the growing Nazi threat. Based on a true story, The Sound of Music is a timeless classic filled with unforgettable songs and heartwarming moments.

Genre(s) and MPAA Rating: Musical, Drama, G

Key Cast Members:

Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Haydn, Peggy Wood

Ways to Celebrate

Sing Along to Every Song – This movie is perfect for a full musical experience.
Dress Like Your Favorite Character – Dirndls, nun habits, or curtain-made play clothes are all fun options.
Host an Edelweiss Crafting Night – Make paper or fabric versions of the famous flower.
Play a Sound of Music Trivia Game – Test your knowledge of behind-the-scenes facts.
Do a “Do-Re-Mi” Scavenger Hunt – Hide musical notes around the house and have guests find them in order.

Filming Locations

Salzburg, Austria – The majority of the film was shot in stunning locations like Mirabell Gardens (for “Do-Re-Mi”) and Nonnberg Abbey.
Felsenreitschule, Salzburg – The real-life concert hall where the von Trapps perform before escaping.
Werfen, Austria – The hills used for the opening scene of Maria spinning.
Hollywood, California – Some interior shots were filmed on soundstages at 20th Century Fox Studios.