Symphony Hall Shines with BSO’s Tribute to John Williams’ Scores

John Williams, the iconic Hollywood composer, is still captivating audiences at nearly 94 years old. His enduring career was recently celebrated by the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) during the “E Pluribus Unum: From Many, One” festival. This event marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and showcases Williams’ phenomenal contributions to music and culture over his seven-decade span.

BSO Tribute to John Williams’ Scores

The BSO’s program, taking place over four days starting January 22, emphasizes Williams’ substantial impact on the music industry. The orchestra has had a longstanding relationship with Williams, dating back to his tenure as Boston Pops conductor from 1980 to 1993.

Highlighted Performances

• The haunting theme from “Schindler’s List,” performed by the acclaimed violinist Gil Shaham.
• A suite from “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” highlighting his extensive collaborations with director Steven Spielberg.
• The Boston premiere of a new Piano Concerto, composed for celebrated pianist Emanuel Ax.

Pianist Emanuel Ax, who has strong ties to Williams, contributed to the creation of this concerto. Ax wrote to Williams after learning about the composer’s aspiration to create a piano concerto. His enthusiasm shared through a letter resulted in Williams embracing the idea.

The New Piano Concerto

This piece pays homage to legendary jazz pianists like Art Tatum, Oscar Peterson, and Bill Evans, each movement reflecting their unique styles. Ax describes the concerto as exciting and approachable, capable of intriguing audiences upon the first listen while also inviting further exploration.

Although the piece is inspired by jazz legends, Ax notes that it does not strictly fall into the jazz category. Instead, it boasts a harmonic complexity that distinguishes it from Williams’ film scores.

A Lasting Legacy

Premiered at Tanglewood with Williams in attendance, the Piano Concerto exemplifies the strength of Williams’ artistry. Ax and Williams share a deep bond with the BSO, having performed at its summer home in the Berkshires for decades. Williams continues to compose, sparking joy and anticipation in both Ax and his audience.

As Ax appropriately states, “The musicians that for me will last forever are Bernstein, Copland, and John Williams.” His belief underscores Williams’ enduring legacy in American music. With ongoing projects and a commitment to innovation, Williams remains a vibrant force in the world of music.