‘William Tell Overture’: From the Swiss Alps to the Wild West

Rossini’s opera was the musical centerpiece of ‘The Lone Ranger’ television show.
‘William Tell Overture’: From the Swiss Alps to the Wild West
A circa 1955 film still from the American television series “The Lone Ranger.” The show’s famous theme song, "William Tell Overture,” was borrowed from an opera by Italian composer Gioachino Rossini. Hulton Archive/Getty Images
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“Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear when the West was young and adventure lie at the end of every trail.”

Each time “The Lone Ranger” aired, the narrator beckoned audiences to travel back in time to the fledgling days when horsemen, outlaws, and homesteaders traveled the vast, rural plains. He introduced the mysterious masked protagonist known as “The Lone Ranger,” a former Texas Ranger who continued his work solo after a band of outlaws killed his fellow lawmen. His life was saved by Tonto, a Native American returning the favor after the Lone Ranger saved his life when they were young boys. Tonto then teams up with him to be a protecting force for good against all kinds of bad guys and to help restore “hope to those who wanted to make this frontier land their home.”
Rebecca Day
Rebecca Day
Author
Rebecca Day is a freelance writer and independent musician. For more information on her music and writing, visit her Substack, Classically Cultured, at classicallycultured.substack.com