This is my “love letter” (ha-ha) to “My Favorite Things” that changed me in ways I didn’t expect. This post not about story history. You can find it and other details elsewhere. Here, I just want to share some interesting versions and scenes from media that I love.
First on the list, of course, is John Coltrane’s version. His iconic take on the song brings a unique jazz feeling that really touches me. Listen and watch below.
Sound of Music
I’ve heard this song many times, but I truly fell in love with it after watching the wonderful film “Sound of Music” with Julie Andrews. The movie tells the story of a governess who brings joy and music to a family while they face the challenges of life during wartime.
The way she changes their lives made the song even more special for me. When I rewatch these two scenes, they always bring tears of joy to my eyes. “Why don’t I feel better?” t_t
My favorite things from Russia!
Another priceless find is this Russian interpretation. I discovered it many years ago while searching for tracks on VKontakte during a particularly sad mood, and it has stayed with me ever since. This version, titled “За вспышкой счастья не вижу птиц” (I Can’t See the Birds Behind the Flash of Happiness), still moves me deeply every time I listen to it.
Stanislav Pospelov from the group “Дальний свет” arranged this version, with Anna Khvostenko singing. Their take on the song adds a unique Russian feel to the familiar tune.
My favorite things in anime!
Sakamichi No Apollon (Kids On The Slope) This thing is something that also have a big impact on my jazz journey. Before this anime, I didn’t like jazz, but this show and its soundtrack made me genuinely fall in love with it. :> Even the episodes are named after jazz tracks!
Seriously, watch this anime if you haven’t already!
The second track is fire. Below is the full anime scene with a medley of “My Favorite Things,” “Someday My Prince Will Come,” and “Moanin’”:
Full Playlist
From Julie Andrews to John Coltrane, from Russia to Japan, “My Favorite Things” continues to inspire and delight me. Truly, it remains one of my favorite things in this world of music.
