The Golden Notes: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Musical Scores

Deciding which musical has the best music is a challenge that stirs passionate debates among theater enthusiasts. From the pulse-pounding beats of contemporary shows to the timeless melodies of classics, the world of musical theater offers a diverse and rich tapestry of scores that resonate with audiences of all ages.

Contemporary Innovations

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s blend of hip-hop, RB, and traditional show tunes in Hamilton has revolutionized musical theater. This groundbreaking production has garnered widespread acclaim, demonstrating how modern musicals can captivate and inspire audiences with their innovative styles and themes. Miranda’s score seamlessly integrates elements from different genres, creating a vibrant and memorable experience that redefines what a musical can be.

Classics that Endure

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera is a classic among musicals, known for its powerful score and emotional songs. This musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s novel continues to captivate audiences with its haunting melodies and dramatic scores. It is one of the most successful musicals in history, with a runtime that often exceeds three hours (more than six curtain calls, as noted by Arthur Freed).

Vibrant Tragedies and Emotions

Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim created a score for West Side Story that is both vibrant and emotionally resonant. Their collaboration resulted in a timeless classic that addresses themes of love and conflict. The music is not only catchy but also poignant, making it a favorite among theatergoers. Stephen Schwartz’s music, too, has captivated audiences with its catchy and poignant songs, such as those in Pippin and Wicked.

The Rock-N-Roll Revolution

Jonathan Larson’s rock-infused score in Rent addresses themes of love and loss in a way that resonates deeply with many. The music is bold and raw, reflecting the gritty realities of life captured in this groundbreaking musical. Meanwhile, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton has made a significant impact with its fusion of hip-hop, RB, and traditional show tunes, leading to a Grammy Award for Best Musical ShowAlbum and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Personal Testimonials

While opinions on the best musical scores are highly subjective, many agree that certain shows stand out even to the most jaded critics. For instance, the musical adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera has been a source of inspiration for many artists, including the All I Ask Of You soprano performance by Sarah Barielles at the age of 11, which later blossomed into a successful career. Her performances in No Day But Today from Rent, Burn from Hamilton, and I’m Not That Girl Waitress showcase her exceptional vocal prowess.

A Collective Taste

Ultimately, while no single musical can claim to have the "best" lyrics or music, a variety of musicals offer exceptional songs that have become a staple in the entertainment industry. For many avid fans, the list includes shows like BMC DEH (Broadway Music Catalogue), Hamilton, Heathers, Rent, Hairspray, Miss Saigon, and 21 Chump Street. Whether it's the emotional depth of Les Misérables or the innovative blend of hip-hop and traditional storytelling in Hamilton, these musicals continue to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.

So, whether you're a critic or a fan, the best musical scores are those that resonate with your heart and soul. As Sarah Barielles’ performances remind us, the power of musical theater lies in its ability to evoke a range of emotions and connect us on a profound level.