John Williams in Vienna

From Star Wars to E.T., from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Jurassic Park, John Williams’ screen compositions are among the most recognizable of all time. Yet hearing them in a formal concert setting, performed by the Vienna Philharmonic—one of Europe’s greatest orchestras—and conducted by Williams, gives these glorious scores fresh symphonic gravitas. Indeed, details and textures of Williams’ compositions are highlighted anew: think the post-Romantic, Straussian shimmer of Close Encounters of the Third Kind, or the scampering woodwind that glistens throughout E.T.. Everywhere are minute, magical touches that lift this music from the brilliant to the sublime. Two new arrangements by Williams for violin and orchestra, performed by Anne-Sophie Mutter, make for a scintillating bonus.