Shadows Over the Hills- The Mysterious Fate of the Children in ‘The Sound of Music’
What happened to the children in “The Sound of Music”? This classic musical film, based on the novel by Maria von Trapp, tells the story of a young woman named Maria who becomes a governess to the seven children of Captain von Trapp. The film, released in 1965, has captivated audiences for decades with its enchanting music, charming characters, and heartwarming story. However, the fates of the real-life children of Captain von Trapp, who inspired the film, have been a subject of intrigue and speculation.
The von Trapp family, led by Captain Georg von Trapp, moved to the United States after the end of World War II. The family, including Maria and her seven charges, left their native Austria in 1949 to escape the political turmoil and Nazi regime. Upon arriving in the United States, they settled in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where they opened a school and music academy, the von Trapp Music Center.
As for the children, they grew up to lead fulfilling lives, pursuing various interests and careers. Here’s a brief overview of what happened to each of them:
1. Maria (Kitty) von Trapp: The oldest of the von Trapp children, Maria, became a teacher and a singer. She married a musician named Gerhard von Rotz and had three children of her own. She passed away in 2007 at the age of 86.
2. Liesl von Trapp: The second oldest, Liesl, pursued a career in music and became a singer and actress. She was married to a musician named Attila Novak, and they had two children. Liesl passed away in 2014 at the age of 72.
3. Gretl von Trapp: The third child, Gretl, followed in her siblings’ footsteps and became a singer. She was married to a musician named Kurt Aland and had three children. Gretl passed away in 2016 at the age of 68.
4. Rosalie von Trapp: The fourth child, Rosalie, pursued a career in nursing. She was married to a man named James Martin and had two children. Rosalie passed away in 2017 at the age of 76.
5. Martin von Trapp: The fifth child, Martin, was passionate about music and pursued a career in that field. He was married to a woman named Mary and had two children. Martin passed away in 2011 at the age of 68.
6. Frederick (Freddy) von Trapp: The sixth child, Freddy, was an artist and graphic designer. He was married to a woman named Mary and had two children. Freddy passed away in 2007 at the age of 62.
7. Margaret (Mia) von Trapp: The youngest of the von Trapp children, Margaret, pursued a career in nursing. She was married to a man named James Martin and had two children. Margaret passed away in 2015 at the age of 70.
While the von Trapp family’s lives took different paths after leaving Austria, they remained united and close-knit. The legacy of “The Sound of Music” continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide, and the real-life children of Captain von Trapp have contributed to the story’s enduring appeal.
