(1902–1979)
Richard Rodgers composed *The Carousel Waltz* as the overture to his 1945 musical Carousel, written in collaboration with lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II. The piece paints a vivid picture of a bustling carnival, complete with the spinning motion of a carousel. Rodgers’ skillful use of orchestral color captures the whimsy and excitement of a fairground, setting the stage for a story that explores themes of love, redemption, and hope.
For Valentine’s Day, this waltz invites us to embrace the playful and joyous side of love. Its lively melodies evoke the thrill of a first date, full of laughter and shared adventures. Yet beneath its lighthearted charm, the piece hints at the deeper connections that make love meaningful—a perfect metaphor for the ups and downs of a romantic journey.