Anyone know what the actual cadenza at the end of "think of me" is?

I used to work at the theatre when it first opened and it was different for every Christine I had ever seen play the role. I know this doesn't answer your question, but I believe it's open for interpretation.

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There might be more than three. Patti Cohenauer (sp?), the original Christine alternate, sang a cadenza which was different than the one Sarah Brightman sang. I believe Rebecca Luker's cadenza was also different.

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Forgot to add this one. The Christine (Rebecca Caine) on the Canadian cast album sings a different cadenza as well.

And this is the last time I post something on this topic!! I promise. LOL

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Updated On: 1/5/05 at 06:47 PM

Cadenzas are sometimes written out by the composer but more often than not are improvised by the performer. In addition to the singers mentioned in the previous posts, Claire Moore, Sarah Brightman's alternate in the original London production of PHANTOM (who, incidentally, was also the original Ellen in the West End production of MISS SAIGON) sings yet another version of THINK OF ME's cadenza in a recording that came out a few years ago. Moore's is a very well-sung Christine, which I actually prefer over Brightman's OLC vocals.

thanks so much for all the info...I sort of figured it would probably be open to interpretation. Thanks a lot everyone!

hey, I know what cadenzas are!!!! (not meant to sound b*tchy), ...I was just wondering if there was a precedent or standard cadenza they were using now, or if they put limitations on it, etc.
Thanks all again!

Sueleen, I appreciated your answer. You explained it very clearly.

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The original cadenza isn't exactly what is in the sheet music. If you listen to the last couple of notes (from the top Bb), you'll hear Sarah Brightman hits a couple more notes coming down (I think it possibly goes Bb-G-Eb instead of just Bb-Eb, which is what is written).

Cadenzas started out as purely improvised passages, but some composers notate them, having less faith in the singer's ability to improvise or creativity than perhaps they should.

A brilliant one was Stephanie Lawrence's version of THINK OF ME. It lasted a fair bit longer than the original and, I think, went even higher. It really was incredible! Unfortunately, my cd with that version on got destroyed *scowls at removal men* & as it was a magazine offer, I've not been able to replace that cd or find another with that version on.