Boston Pops on Tour 2023: John Williams Tribute (2023)

BOSTON POPS ON TOUR 2023: JOHN WILLIAMS TRIBUTE
Music composed by John Williams
Music conducted by Keith Lockhart
Performed by the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra
Special piano performances by Hayato Sumino
October 7, 2023
Tokyo International Forum
Tokyo, Japan

PART 1: CONCERT REPORT

(this report was originally written on Oct. 7, 2023 – just after the concert)

The John Williams fever continues!

Still on a high after the spectacular and momentous Williams concert at Suntory Hall, I had come to the famed Tokyo International Forum to see the next concert on my agenda, the highly anticipated return of the Boston Pops for their John Williams Tribute concert under the trusty baton of Keith Lockhart.

After some introductory words (in Japanese no less!) from the conductor, the concert began with the instantly recognizable trumpet notes from SUPERMAN while a montage of movies from Williams’ extensive body of work played on large screens.

After the applause died down, one of many short video interviews with Williams appeared on the screens to provide some context to the next piece being played.

His anecdote about THE TOWERING INFERNO was as surprising as it was amusing when he mentioned that the producer only liked his music after he highlighted the producer’s name musically during the credits! Honestly, I had never really been a big fan of THE TOWERING INFERNO, but after hearing this spirited performance, I know what I’ll be listening to as soon as I get home tonight!

The suite from CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND was a stunning showcase of the perfect marriage between music and image. Along with a perfectly edited video montage from the film, the music went from a feeling of dread and despair to a deep sense of wonderment and elation. The audience was truly spellbound during the whole piece- you could literally hear a pin drop.

The main theme from SABRINA dazzled with its delicate piano and romantic string and flute parts. The guest pianist, Hayato Sumino, performed to perfection and received hearty applause after the piece.

After the interval we were treated to a fine performance of the main theme from JURASSIC PARK. The iconic opening on the French Horn had us on the edge of our seats while it slowly built up to the majestic main theme. When the theme finally arrived in all its glory, we were in film music heaven – the only thing missing was Sam Neill on the concert stage with his look of disbelief and wonder when seeing a live brachiosaurus for the first time.

Together with an inspiring video montage of Olympians and their incredible achievements over the years, the sounds of the OLYMPIC FANFARE AND THEME filled the auditorium with feelings of heroism, courage and determination. I’m certainly no sportsman, but after hearing that piece, I felt I could not only run, but win the Boston Marathon!

The main theme from SCHINDLER’S LIST was preceded by an interview clip of Williams explaining how he favoured the “Remembrances” theme over the “Main theme.” It was somewhat odd then that the “Main theme” was performed right after! In any case, it was a deeply moving performance of the theme that was greatly received by the audience.

The last three pieces were from STAR WARS: “Yoda’s theme,” “Rey’s theme,” and the iconic “Star Wars: Main Title.” All were perfectly performed with “Rey’s theme” being a particular standout. The clarity of the woodwind instruments during that piece really helped the piece shine. Just lovely.

The encore for the night was “Cantina band” from STAR WARS. It was a fun and vibrant performance that I’m sure put a smile on many faces… mine included! It was a perfect way to end the concert and yet another reminder that Williams has been, and always will be, the very best.