John Williams

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Born:
February 8, 1932, he's 80 and American.
Names:
Birthname: John Towner Williams. Alternative names: Johnny Williams.
One Liner:
Movie score composer famed for Jaws, ET, Star Wars
Snapshot:
An Artist with 173 releases, and credited 23 times on others' music. 7 collaborations and 2 musical relatives.

Biography

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If you've seen any American movies over the last forty years, chances are you've heard a John Williams score. A quick name check of films you're sure to recognize includes Jaws, Star Wars, Superman, ET, Schindler's List and Harry Potter, but his output has been prolific, to say the least. During his six decade career he has become one of Hollywood's most celebrated soundtrack composers. He has also lent his talent to television and has composed the music for four Olympic Games. He has won five Academy Awards and has been nominated 45 times.

He was born in 1932 in New York. His musical talent was evident from a young age and when he was drafted into the army, he conducted and arranged music for the Air Force Band. After his service he studied at the celebrated Juilliard School. His career as a film composer started as soon as he finished his studies and continues to this day.

Pictures

John Williams - John Williams Getty Images

John Williams

John Williams - Conde Nast Media Group Presents 2007 Movies Rock - Show Getty Images

Conde Nast Media Group Presents 2007 Movies Rock - Show

John Williams - James Taylor Honored As 2006 MusiCares Person Of The Year - Arrivals Getty Images

James Taylor Honored As 2006 MusiCares Person Of The Year - Arrivals

John Williams - Rose Bowl: Michigan v USC Getty Images

Rose Bowl: Michigan v USC

John Williams - Rose Bowl: Michigan v USC Getty Images

Rose Bowl: Michigan v USC

John Williams - John Williams Getty Images

John Williams

Music

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Genres

Classical, Soundtracks. Vote on Genres
Collaborations, Groups and Family
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John Williams

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In the News

John Williams

Aug, 1 2009

It all began in 1977: The text on the big screen scrolling deep into space, reading “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” and then the music jumped in, making the hairs on your arms stand up. The Star Wars saga created a generation of wookie-wailing, Leila-loving geeks and the score, written by John Williams, is still instantly recognizable. Since those early days the franchise has spawned all manner of spin-offs including games, toys, costumes and of course, conventions, but the most recent is “Star Wars: In Concert.” The huge multi-media event, which is scheduled to begin in October, will feature music played by a live orchestra and choir against the backdrop of an enormous screen showing edited highlights of all six films. The whole experience will be narrated by Anthony Daniels -- better known as C-3PO to his fans -- and will be accompanied by an exclusive exhibition of Star Wars memorabilia. George Lucas commended Williams’ score, saying that “The whole soundtrack is a testament to John Williams' creativity and his extraordinary ability to enhance the emotional aspects of the films." Williams said of the show, “I believe that a singular and unique Star Wars experience has been born,” and we quite agree. The tour begins at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, California.

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