Angel Of Music
Andrew Lloyd Webber
The Enigmatic Presence of the 'Angel of Music'
Andrew Lloyd Webber's 'Angel of Music' is a hauntingly beautiful piece from the musical 'The Phantom of the Opera.' The song delves into the mysterious and almost supernatural connection between Christine, the protagonist, and her unseen mentor, often referred to as the 'Angel of Music.' The lyrics capture Christine's awe and reverence for this enigmatic figure, who she believes is guiding her musical talents from the shadows. This 'angel' is a metaphor for the Phantom, a disfigured musical genius who has been secretly tutoring Christine, helping her to achieve her full potential as a singer.
The song begins with Christine's friend, Meg, expressing her amazement at Christine's sudden improvement and questioning the identity of her tutor. Christine, in a trance-like state, recalls her father's stories of an angel who would guide her. She believes that this angel is now with her, calling to her softly and hiding somewhere inside her mind. This belief in the 'Angel of Music' gives Christine a sense of comfort and inspiration, even though it also brings a sense of unease and fear, as evidenced by Meg's concern for Christine's well-being.
The duality of the 'Angel of Music' as both a guide and a source of fear is a central theme in the song. Christine's plea for the angel to reveal himself and grant her his glory highlights her desperation for validation and success. However, the darker undertones of the song, with references to cold hands and a frightening presence, suggest that this guidance comes at a cost. The 'Angel of Music' symbolizes the fine line between genius and madness, and the sacrifices one must make in the pursuit of artistic excellence.