For those not in the classical know, The London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), founded in 1904, is the oldest of London's symphony orchestras.

It was set up by a group of players who left Henry Wood's Queen's Hall Orchestra because of a new rule requiring players to give the orchestra their exclusive services.

The LSO itself later introduced a similar rule for its members. From the outset, the LSO was organized on co-operative lines, with all players sharing the profits at the end of each season. This practice continued for the orchestra's first four decades.

The LSO’s close connection with John Williams goes back nearly 40 years to the first notes of Star Wars in 1977.

Just released this past May 4th, 2018 via Decca Classics, John Williams: A Life In Music is a once in a lifetime release that includes the best film scores by John Williams, including "Hedwig’s Theme" from Harry Potter that has been recorded by the LSO for the very first time.

1. "Main Title" (From Star Wars)
2. "Theme" (From Jurassic Park)
3. "Hedwig's Theme" (From Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone)
4. "The Raiders March" (From Raiders Of The Lost Ark)
5. "Flying Theme" (From E.T)
6. "Theme" (From Schindler's List)
7. "The Flight To Neverland" (From Hook)
8. "Hymn To The Fallen" (From Saving Private Ryan)
9. "Shark Theme" (From Jaws)
10. "Superman March" (From Superman)

There's also a World Premier Recording of Schindler’s List ("Theme") featuring a solo cello - this is the first time the official arrangement by John Williams has been recorded.

As you can all imagine, it's crazy just how great the recording quality is here on John Williams: A Life In Music. Crystal clear audio. So much so that if you close your eyes you're almost in the jungle, or in space, or even registering at Hogwarts!

It's really beautifully engineered and, additionally, the LSO are kind of unbeatable seeing as they did most of the original recordings, of course.

Again, the sound is plush and expansive, rich, warm and smooth, in a glowing and spacious acoustic. The highlight here is the playing of the LSO, which is truly fabulous.

One additional nice touch is that the full-color booklet includes quotes from featured members of the orchestra for each track. These do not seem "scripted" or shallow; rather, they express sincere admiration for the genius of John Williams as a composer and reveal how rewarding his scores are to play.

I would recommend this delightful, soaring compilation to anyone who likes well-produced and well-performed music.

CD Purchase Link

www.lso.co.uk

www.JohnWilliams.org