Legendary film composer comes to the ‘Burgh

By Shawn Williams

John Williams, one of the most acclaimed film composers of all time, will return to… John Williams, one of the most acclaimed film composers of all time, will return to Pittsburgh to conduct the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for two shows this weekend.

Williams’ credits read like a log of the biggest films of the second half of the 20th century: the “Star Wars” films, “E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial,” the “Indiana Jones” trilogy, “Saving Private Ryan,” “Jaws” and “Superman” are just a few of his accomplishments.

Williams’ has scored more than 90 films and received five Academy Awards and 38 nominations, making him the most nominated living person. He has also been awarded five British Academy Awards, 17 Grammys and three Golden Globes. Many of his records have reached gold or platinum status.

Williams last appeared in Pittsburgh in 2001 for a subscribers-only Pittsburgh Pops show. His concerts this weekend, however, are open to everyone. Fans of the symphony, film or good music should take advantage of the opportunity to hear a live performance by one of the most important American composers of the last century, playing with the world-renowned Pittsburgh Symphony in Heinz Hall, one of the most beautiful venues in the country.