The one day From Jaws to Jurassic Park: The Music of John Williams may have been competing with the opening night of Aladdin, but that did not diminish the overflowing crowd in the concert hall. Drawing everyone from school children to seasoned QSO-goers, the evening gave fresh life to iconic numbers from classics including Indiana Jones, Harry Potter, and Star Wars.
Conducted by the charismatic Guy Noble, the performance knew what its audience wanted.
Each piece was accompanied by laser lighting, embracing the somber tones of Schindler’s List and Jane Eyre and the dynamic gusto of the suite from a galaxy far, far away. Brimming with emotional variety and intensity, the pieces showcased William’s range and QSO’s ability to do justice to his collection.
Williams, who has won five Academy Awards and 32 Grammy Awards, and has been nominated for scores, is the composer of more than 100 films.
Noble, who is equal parts focused and playful, guided the audience through the highlights, discussing each piece’s context, what to look out for, and how it fit into the overarching oeuvre.
What always compels me about QSO is the sheer physicality of the players: countless bows arcing down upon strings in tandem, air quivering from the honeyed cry of French horns and the answering staccato of flutes. Besides a technical prowess, it highlights a passion for the music — and for sharing it.
QSO’s 2018 season is proof that you do not need to be fluent in Beethoven or Bruckner to enjoy a performance. Events range from collaborations with Brisbane artist The Kite String Tangle, nights honoring classical composers, and showcasing Harry Potter in concert. However, you don’t need to be listening to the orchestra’s version of Hedwig’s Theme to know that, when notes are commanded by QSO, there is a thin line between music and magic.
Readers also enjoyed seeing the Socials from QSO’s Piano Power event.
