Can Star Wars save Mozart? How John Williams changed music far beyond the movies

John Williams, whose compositions have scored some of the most iconic films of the last half-century, remains a towering figure in music at the age of 94. Though renowned for his work on blockbusters like Star Wars, Jaws, and Jurassic Park, his influence extends far beyond Hollywood’s soundtracks, playing a critical role in preserving and invigorating the symphonic tradition worldwide.

Williams’ career, spanning more than five decades, has yielded an unprecedented 54 Academy Award nominations, with five wins, underscoring his consistent excellence and innovation in film scoring. Despite recent health challenges and the use of a wheelchair in public appearances, he continues to compose ambitious works, including the score for his 30th collaboration with director Steven Spielberg. This enduring productivity at an advanced age highlights his dedication to music and its evolving role in contemporary culture.

The significance of Williams’ contribution is perhaps best understood in terms of his indirect impact on classical music audiences and institutions. By integrating symphonic music into mainstream cinema, he has introduced millions to the emotional power and complexity of orchestral sound. This exposure has fueled interest in classical repertoire among diverse demographics, many of whom might not have otherwise encountered such music.

Conductor Stéphane Denève, a close associate of Williams and guest conductor for the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra’s upcoming concerts dedicated to his work, emphasizes that Williams helped cement the symphony orchestra’s place in popular culture. During an era when film scores could have shifted toward pop or electronic music, Williams’ commitment to orchestral composition preserved and enhanced the role of traditional symphonic ensembles in film production and beyond.

Williams also made a strategic choice to allow orchestras to perform his scores without incurring rental fees, enabling widespread adoption of his music across professional and amateur ensembles. Musicians within the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra attest to the formative role Williams’ compositions have played in their development. Bassoonist Ingrid Hagan recalls learning themes from Williams’ film scores early in her career, illustrating how his music serves as an accessible gateway to classical training.

Similarly, principal timpanist Steven Logan describes the exhilaration of performing Williams’ works, noting the composer’s respectful and encouraging approach to musicians. Playing under Williams’ baton is likened to a profound, almost reverential experience, indicative of the deep mutual appreciation between the maestro and the orchestral community.

Williams’ appeal transcends traditional classical audiences, with concertgoers at venues like the Hollywood Bowl displaying enthusiastic, almost fanatical responses to his performances. This phenomenon challenges conventional expectations of orchestral music’s reach and impact, drawing young and older listeners alike into the shared experience of live symphonic music.

The popularity of live-to-film concerts, where orchestras perform Williams’ scores synchronized with movie screenings, has become a substantial revenue source and engagement tool for orchestras globally, including in Auckland. While this trend raises questions about the balance between cinematic accompaniment and standalone music performance, industry observers acknowledge its overall benefit in maintaining orchestral relevance and financial viability.

Beyond audience engagement, Williams’ legacy influences the pipeline of future classical musicians. His work encourages deeper exploration of the orchestral tradition, inspiring many to pursue formal music education and careers within symphony orchestras. This educational impact aligns with Williams’ expressed concern for the survival and evolution of classical music and his commitment to preserving his manuscripts and scores for future scholarly study.

Esteemed classical artists and conductors, such as Yo-Yo Ma and Gustavo Dudamel, have championed Williams’ music, further eroding the historical divide between film music and classical concert repertoire. Invitations to conduct leading orchestras like the Berlin Philharmonic and Vienna Philharmonic affirm his stature within the classical music world.

While the ultimate place of Williams’ compositions within the classical canon remains to be determined, their widespread appeal and musical craftsmanship suggest a lasting influence. His approachable personality, combined with the generosity and richness of his music, continues to foster hope for the future of orchestral music, connecting generations and inviting audiences into a renewed appreciation of symphonic art.