Ever heard of John Williams?

If not, it’s more likely to have heard John Williams’s work. He is one of the most famous modern composers, having written music for over one hundred films, including such blockbusters as the Star Wars saga, the first three Harry Potter films, the Indiana Jones series, Schindler’s List, Jaws, E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, Jurassic Park, and many more.

His original film scores are critically acclaimed, earning him 52 Oscar nominations in his career so far, which makes him one of the most nominated people ever, second only to Walt Disney himself. Not only is his music critically acclaimed, it is also very popular with audiences of all generations. Senior student Christopher Alonso-Benito loves John Williams’s work. “The music he composes always just fits the scene no matter what movie it is. Indiana Jones is one that just pops into my head,” he adds. “The main theme just gets you right into it; you feel that it’s going to be adventurous!” he exclaims. John Williams’s extensive list of honors includes 25 Grammys, seven BAFTAs, five Oscars, and four Golden Globes. 

At 90 years old, he continues to compose sensational music and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon–although he does appear to be gradually stepping away from the film score scene. Aside from being a lauded film score composer, John Williams has also written original orchestral and classical style pieces. He has written several concertos to be played by various orchestras and for specific occasions. He was the Principal Conductor of the Boston Pops Orchestra for 14 years, up until his retirement from the group in 1993, and is honored as the Laureate Conductor of the popular orchestra to this day.  

This weekend, his music is coming to South Bend. The South Bend Symphony Orchestra will be playing a collection of his most well known and loved pieces–including some from his Boston Pops Orchestra days,–at the Morris Performing Arts Center, located at 211 N. Michigan Street in South Bend, on Saturday, April 30. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m., with ticket prices starting at around $50 and varying depending on seat location.  

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to hear many of the film industry’s most iconic and beloved themes and songs being performed locally, live and in concert!