John Williams
American composer, conductor, and pianist renowned for iconic film scores.
John Williams emerged as a defining force in 20th-21st century film music through collaborations with directors like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. His career spans over six decades, earning 54 Academy Award nominations (winning five), making him the second-most nominated individual in Oscar history. Key works include themes for Star Wars, Jaws, Indiana Jones, E.
T., and Harry Potter.
- Initially worked as a jazz pianist in New York clubs and later as a session musician for artists like Henry Mancini.
- His 48-year partnership with Steven Spielberg began with The Sugarland Express (1974); Spielberg insisted Williams score all his films except The Color Purple.
- Survived a near-fatal fall in 2019 at his Los Angeles home, requiring surgery but returning to composition within months.
- Known for rejecting electronic trends; insisted on live orchestras even for contemporary films like Jurassic Park.
- Unexpectedly composed the 2023 Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny score at age 91, delaying retirement plans.
