This past weekend, Elgin Symphony Orchestra paid tribute to John Williams in its second performance in the Pops series, “Summon the Heroes: The Music of John Williams.”
Led by guest conductor Constantine Kitsopoulos, the orchestra performed several of the well-known themes: Superman, E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. They also presented some lesser-known pieces: “Viktor’s Theme” from the film The Terminal and “The Long Road to Justice” from Amistad.
But John Williams doesn’t just compose for the silver screen. “Summon the Heroes,” which he composed for the 100th anniversary of the Olympics, “Liberty Fanfare” for the recommissioning of the Liberty Bell, and “Concerto for Trumpet and Orchestra,” a commissioned work for the Cleveland Orchestra, were also featured as part of the program.
There is a common theme that runs through John Williams’s works. His use of brass and woodwind sections in many of his works demonstrates a patriotic grandeur, such as in Superman’s theme. He uses strings to indicate flight as well as soaring through the galaxies and the magic of wonder, as in Harry Potter, E.T. and Star Wars. He has an aptitude for whimsy as with the music box in Harry Potter. I cannot listen to a John Williams score without lifting my eyes to the heavens in search of that wonder and magic. He is truly a master of our generation.
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra, housed in the Hemmens Auditorium in Elgin, Illinois, is a full orchestra that has been in existence since 1950. Conductor Maestro Robert Hanson has been music director since 1974.
As the ESO celebrates its 59th year, the season will include over 70 performances in Elgin, Schaumburg, and Hoffman Estates. The ESO has the distinction of being the second largest orchestra in the state of Illinois and one of the premier regional orchestras in the Midwest. ESO programs include traditional classical music by many of the greatest composers such as Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart, and Brahms. The orchestra also has a Pops Series, which showcases American composers such as John Williams, Gershwin, Cole Porter, and Aaron Copland.
ESO’s Holiday Showcase is an extravaganza of music, circus, and ice skating. There is also a choir. The next concert is on Dec. 6 at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates.
You may have missed John Williams, but you can get more information on the orchestra and tickets at www.elginsymphony.org. I highly recommend it—you'll enjoy a fabulous evening of music in the suburbs.
