Outside the steps of Symphony Hall, not everyone knows John Williams the composer, but they all recognize his music.
Williams is by far the most prolific composer of famous scores for movies like Star Wars, Jaws, and Indiana Jones.
He’s taking the stage at Symphony Hall on Wednesday and Thursday night, conducting with the Boston Pops Orchestra and Keith Lockhart. What makes this season so special, is that it’s dedicated to his entire 60-year career.
“There is certainly nobody else who I can think of, who’s music inhabits so many people’s sound tracks,” said Lockhart.
While so many people recognize the music of Wiliams, he now rarely sits down for interviews. He politely declined an interview requested by NBC Boston.
People who know him say that’s because his work has never been about him.
“He’s kind of transcended just being kind of a classical composer,” said Morgana Hartman.
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Comic book shop owner Matt Lehman credits Williams, who also wrote the first Superman movie score, for bringing classical music to pop culture.
“Classical music which is thought of as being stodgy and dry. He brought it to the masses so everyone can relate to, ” said Lehman.
Boston Pops principle trumpet player Tom Rolfs says even at the age of 85, Williams isn’t slowing down and expects many more hits to come.
“I think his music will last into the next century,” said Rolfs.
The next time Williams conducts live will be at Tanglewood on August 19 for a one time performance.
