The 1964 musical by Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick and Joseph Stein is a must-see masterpiece. A classic amongst greats, Fiddler on the Roof is an enchanting celebration of love and life which still wows audiences today.
You may have heard of the show or know some of the tunes, but we’re here to guide you through all the Fiddler on the Roof songs before you see it at the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park this summer.
All of the Fiddler on the Roof songs in order
Here’s your definitive guide to all the tunes you’ll hear while watching Fiddler on the Roof.
Fiddler on the Roof Act One songs
Tradition
'Tradition' serves as both the prologue and introduction to the main protagonist Tevye and the village he resides in. We also meet his wife Golde and their daughters Tzeitel, Hodel, Chava, Shprintze and Bielke. The song celebrates the importance of tradition and its role in survival. Throughout the song, we meet other Fiddler on the Roof characters.
Matchmaker, Matchmaker
When the village matchmaker, Yente, visits Tevye’s home, she tells Golde that an elderly wealthy butcher wants to marry the eldest daughter, Tzeitel. While Yente tries to sell Tzeitel on the idea of marrying Lazar Wolf, the younger sisters beg the matchmaker to make them a match of their own.
If I Were a Rich Man
Tired and fed up, Tevye asks God what harm would come from him being wealthy. Listing off the simple pleasures and easier life he’d live and enjoy if he had the money, the most famous of the Fiddler on the Roof songs highlights the humble lifestyle he and other villagers have.
Sabbath Prayer
After Tevye rejects Lazar Wolf, Tzeitel implores the young and handsome Motel to ask for her hand in marriage. The family gathers for the Sabbath, and Motel misses his chance.
To Life
Lazar and Tevye meet for a drink, and after a misunderstanding, Lazar convinces the father to allow him to marry Tzeitel. Overcome with joy, they drink to life, and the rest of the village gets involved, toasting to good fortune.
Miracle of Miracles
The morning after the revelry, Tevye announces his agreement with Lazar Wolf. Though Golde is overjoyed, Tzeitel is devastated and asks Tevye to grant her marriage to Motel. The timid tailor pleads to the father, and Tevye allows the union. The young couple celebrate with Miracle of Miracles.
Tevye’s Dream
To pave over his mistakes, Tevye pretends to be waking from a nightmare while Golde interrogates the identity of their eldest daughter's husband-to-be.
Sunrise, Sunset
Everyone comes together for Tzeitel and Motel’s wedding, and the parents sing a melancholy song about the passage of time.
Fiddler on the Roof Act Two songs
Now I Have Everything
Tevye’s daughter Hodel receives a proposal from Perchik - a young revolutionary who must return to Kyiv. She agrees to the marriage and sings 'Now I Have Everything'.
Tvye’s Rebuttal
Though angered by his daughter’s love marriage, Tevye realises he must embrace change and accept the union.
Do You Love Me?
Reflecting on his own arranged marriage, Tevye asks Golde if they found love in their coupling despite their beginnings.
The Rumour/I Just Heard
Like in most villages, rumours travel fast. News of affairs fly along with the shocking rumour that Perchik has been arrested and exiled to Siberia.
Far From the Home I Love
Rattled by the news, Hodel decides to join Perchik no matter where he is. And though she’s choosing to follow her love, she will always love her home and family.
Chavaleh
With one daughter married and another abandoning them, Tevye reaches a breaking point when Chava elopes with Fyedka. Placing himself in the centre of events, Tevye wonders what he’s done wrong to deserve this.
Anatevka
The villagers learn of their expulsion from their beloved Anatevka and must gather their things and find a new home. The villagers reflect on their lives and the hardships faced while living in the village in a bittersweet farewell.
Where is Fiddler on the Roof playing?
You can hear all the Fiddler on the Roof songs at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre during its limited run this summer, book your tickets to the al-fresco production today!