Most have heard Captain von Trapp and Maria’s beautiful duet of “Edelweiss,” but listen as this modern-day husband and wife sing the nostalgic song in their own unique way!
The Sound of Music came out in 1965, and it is televised in December each year. With a few exceptions for dramatic purposes, the musical tells the true story of The Von Trapp Family, the meeting and relationship of Georg and Maria, and the family’s escape from Austria after it was taken over by Germany and the Nazi army.
“Edelweiss” is sung at two critical moments in the film. First, Captain von Trapp sings it with his children, Maria, Max, and a female friend looking on. This is the point at which Captain von Trapp and Maria realize that they are falling in love. It is performed again at a large concert—the place of their daring escape. Captain von Trapp is in despair over what’s ahead for his country and he’s sad, though convicted, to leave. These are pivotal and emotional moments for the two.
These performances are moving and impactful, and, evidently, they made an impression on Michael and Ellen Haygood who stated, in this post, that “Edelweiss” is one of their favorite songs! After a community theater production of The Sound of Music, Ellen reported that they decided to do their own version of the classic.
Their performance has a more American and less European bent, with the banjo added to the guitar. In case you’re wondering, an edelweiss is a mountain plant that has wooly, white leaves around small flowers. But, the mountains in this performance are the Ozark Mountains instead of the Alps. There is more twang and less formality here as well. Nonetheless, Michael and Ellen perform the song beautifully!
That’s not surprising, though. If you live in the midwest, the name “Haygood” may be familiar. After all, The Haygoods have been a mainstay on the Branson, Missouri music scene for nearly 30 years. What’s more, Ellen (Peterson) Haygood comes from a musical family herself, and she appeared on American Idol way back in 2015 before ever becoming a Haygood!
Michael and Ellen met and bonded in Branson over their faith and their love of music and aviation. Are they not the most adorable couple! The Sound of Music’s Georg and Maria are lookers, but Michael and Ellen are seriously cute, too!
Michael and Ellen, please keep singing and bringing to us all of your favorites!
“May my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord.” Psalm 104:34