The Music of John Williams

With a list of creations such as the music of Star Wars, Jaws, Jurassic Park, and many other world-renowned works, there is no question that John Williams is an icon of a composer. Therefore, there is no doubt that any performance of his music is bound to be fantastic. But the performance by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia Choirs is not just fantastic. It is breathtaking.

From the first note they played, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra captured the audience and brought them along the journey of John Williams’ career.  The concert, held at the beautiful Sydney Opera House, was a symphonic celebration that showcased the orchestra's impeccable skill and deep understanding of Williams' iconic compositions.

Under the masterful direction of Nicholas Buc, the orchestra navigated through Williams' diverse repertoire with passion. Each piece resonated with the audience on both a nostalgic and emotional level because the music held a deep importance in not only the audiences’ lives, but in the performers’ lives as well.

Highlights of the performance include the soul-stirring violin solo in the theme of Schindler's List which left not a dry eye in the house. The soloist, Alexandra Osborne, was both technically flawless and deeply moving, capturing the haunting beauty of Williams' composition.

Throughout the evening, the audience was fully immersed in the music, with the lighting shifting and changing in colour to mirror the mood of each piece. For example, in the frightening Shark Theme from Jaws, the lighting became cold to create an eerie sense of being watched in the audience. Then, at the climax of the song, the lights turned deep red as the choir let out a blood-curdling scream. This added visual dimension enhanced the overall sensory experience, further drawing listeners into the cinematic worlds brought to life by Williams' scores.

The event was not only musically captivating but also informative, thanks to hosts Dan Golding and Andrew Pogson. Their engaging commentary provided context and insights into why each piece was composed as it was, enriching the audience's appreciation of Williams' genius and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ ability to perform his compositions.

As a tourist inside the Sydney Opera House for the first time ever, the location itself added to the magic of the evening. The grandeur of the venue complemented the majesty of the music. It was truly a privilege and an honour to experience this performance.

In conclusion, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ performance of John Williams' music was not just a concert but an unforgettable journey through the cinematic landscapes shaped by his compositions. It reminded us of the enduring impact of Williams' music and its ability to transcend generations. The orchestra's commitment to excellence and the conductor and hosts’ insight made this evening a truly magical experience, leaving the audience both moved and inspired. This performance was awesome in the same way a storm is – powerful and inevitably leaving a sense that nothing will ever be the same again.

Isabella Nocetti

Images courtesy of Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Photographer: Jordan Munns.