John Williams’ Compositional Style

Ivano Milo
Jul 21, 2017 · 2 min read

The work of John Williams is far reaching. His career began in the late ‘50’s and continues to this day. One of the things that defines his style is his use of leitmotif, a memorable piece of melody or rhythm that stands out to the listener. (Wikipedia) This can be heard in earlier composers’ works, including in Tschaikovsky’s “Swan Lake Main Theme”

Williams’ creative beginnings in the mainstream started with his work as a session musician. His piano playing blessed the compositions of Jerry Goldsmith and Elmer Bernstien among others. (Wikipedia) The leitmotif at the beginning of the Peter Gunn soundtrack was played by Williams on piano. This is where his lifelong use of leitmotif becomes noticeable.

Williams’ screen credit as a composer was on the movie “Because They’re Young.” Williams’ was noticed for his many talents in composing music of various genres. He began a career in composing suspense scores, eventually working his way into disaster films, most notable Irwin Allen’s. His work on Allen’s films along with his score for “Earthquake” was extremely successful and attracted the attention of Steven Spielberg, who asked Williams to compose the music for “The Sugarland Express.” This started a long collaboration between the two.

Around the same time, George Lucas was looking for a composer for “Star Wars.” Spielberg recommended Williams to Lucas. The results were some of the most widely recognized film scores of all time.

The leitmotif can be heard in the horns sections, but also throughout the entire piece.

Williams’ accomplishments are undeniably huge and his development as a composer has been extremely interesting to research.

Jilliansk. “Swan Lake Main Theme.” YouTube. YouTube, 03 Nov. 2009. Web. 21 July 2017.

“John Williams.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 21 July 2017. Web. 21 July 2017.

StarWarsFreak93. “Star Wars Music Pick Episode IV: The Force Theme.” YouTube. YouTube, 06 Apr. 2009. Web. 21 July 2017.

71superbee3. “Peter Gunn Theme.” YouTube. YouTube, 27 Feb. 2010. Web. 21 July 2017.

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Ivano Milo

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