review - Masters of the Musical Theater - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

"Last weekend the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra, along with three accomplished Broadway performers, presented a concert entitled Masters of the Musical Theater. It was a wonderful evening of classic, well-known songs written by some of the most distinguished Broadway composers, from Leonard Bernstein to Jule Styne, Stephen Sondheim, and Andrew Lloyd Webber under the expert baton of Matthew Kasper, the Symphony's resident conductor. Hugh Panaro, Anne Runolfsson, and Scarlett Strallen have more than a dozen combined Broadway credits on their resumes, and their vocal abilities soared throughout the concert...The mix of three Broadway stars with an orchestra and conductor they've never performed with before could possibly result in an uneven concert with ragged edges. But this concert was incredibly tight, with perfect tempos under Kasper's direction, a beautiful selection of classic show tunes, expert playing by each member of the Phoenix Symphony, and exceptional vocals—all sounding as if the orchestra were traveling with the three stars. It was another exceptional example of how excellent the Phoenix Symphony is, something all three vocalists mentioned more than once throughout the evening."   -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

review - THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK IN CONCERT - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

by Gil Benbrook

Most Star Wars fans consider The Empire Strikes Back to not only be the best movie in the original film trilogy but also the best in the series.

This was the film that provided millions of fans the first opportunity to see the further exploits of the characters, worlds and situations that George Lucas created so successfully in 1977's Star Wars. It also introduced such beloved characters as Yoda and Lando Calrissian while the romance between Han Solo and Princess Leia kicked into high gear. It had the Empire and the Rebel Alliance come face-to-face in several battle sequences, and the film also featured the first time that Luke Skywalker faced Darth Vader in person while Luke also discovered some facts about his past.

The film's non-stop John Williams score is superb from start to finish and this movie was the first time we'd hear “The Imperial March,”which is now just as closely identified to the Star Wars saga as the main “Star Wars” fanfare. In addition to "The Imperial March," Williams also introduced “Yoda’s Theme” in The Empire Strikes Back, a composition full of emotion and jaunty notes.

This past weekend, with the 1980 film playing overhead, Constantine Kitsopoulos expertly led the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra through Williams’ Oscar-nominated score for four performances. I've reviewed numerous Phoenix Symphony concerts in the past and whether it's classical or pop music, supporting a well-known Broadway performer or, like they did last weekend, playing the entire score to a popular film while the entire movie unspools above, they are always exceptional.

When Williams began work on composing the score for the first film in the franchise, Lucas told him that the music should provide the "emotional anchor" to the film. Williams used that information to compose specific themes for the main characters and to ensure that the emotional moments were underscored with musical compositions that brought added importance to those scenes while also featuring fast-paced musical sequences that heightened the tension in the many action sequences in the films.

With enthusiastic playing, the Phoenix Symphony didn't miss a beat under Kitsopoulos' concise direction. Williams' score for the 127 minute film is virtually non-stop, with just a few brief moments when no music is heard (ironically the scene where Darth Vader utters the line "I am your father" has no musical underscore, perhaps as a way to let the weight of that line truly resonate?)

Williams' compositions for The Empire Strikes Back are just as good as his Oscar winning Star Wars score and with so much varied, well orchestrated music it also allows for every instrument in the orchestra to have several featured moments. The Phoenix Symphony's roubust yet refined playing allowed us to hear the brass section blare out, with perfect notes, the well-known soaring themes while the strings section delivered stirring and lush motifs that allowed for the high flying action sequences to soar. The percussion section got a work out as well. Every musician delivered notes full of both gusto and majesty which instantly commanded your attention. There are many haunting melodies in the film's score as well as compositions that build in their intensity. The Phoenix Symphony didn't miss a beat with every note building momentum and driving the energy throughout the film score until the last note rings out and rings out clear and strong.

Kitsopoulos and the Symphony received huge, and well deserved, rounds of applause from the virtually sold out crowd at both the intermission and after the final credits ended.

The only slight misstep was that the sound levels were a bit off with the score occasionally overshadowing the film dialogue. I don't remember that being an issue last season when the Phoenix Symphony provided live accompaniment to Star Wars: A New Hope.

Other similar concerts in their 2019 / 2020 season include the films The Nightmare Before Christmas, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Home Alone, Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince and City Lights all featured with the Phoenix Symphony playing the entire scores for those films while the feature film plays overhead.

After attending both concerts of the first two films in the trilogy, I can only hope that their 2020 / 2021 season will include the third film in the original Star Wars trilogy, The Return of the Jedi.

review - THE MUSIC OF BILLY JOEL, STARRING MICHAEL CAVANAUGH - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

Michael Cavanaugh
Photo courtesy of Cavanaugh Productions

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

"In 2001, Billy Joel handpicked singer and musician Michael Cavanaugh to star in the Broadway musical Movin' Out, which featured more than twenty well-known Joel songs all sung by Cavanaugh. Like Joel, Cavanaugh is a skilled pianist and talented vocalist, and after playing the entire Broadway run of Movin' Out, he has continued to perform songs by Joel and others in concerts across the country, including a successful series of performances with symphony orchestras. This past weekend, Cavanaugh joined forces with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra for three performances of his show, The Music of Billy Joel. The concert was an exceptional evening of classic pop tunes that featured more than a dozen of Joel's hit songs, all well-performed by Cavanaugh, his band, and the Phoenix Symphony.... -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

review - "STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE" IN CONCERT - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

by Gil Benbrook

In the documentary "Empire of Dreams: The Story of the Star Wars Trilogy," it's mentioned that when director George Lucas screened a rough cut of his now famous first film in the series, 1977's Star Wars, for a few of his close friends, it didn't exactly receive overwhelming praise. It wasn't until later, once the completed special effects and the beloved score by John Williams was added that the movie truly came together and would go on to become the phenomenon that we know today.

Over four performances last weekend, the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra screened Star Wars: A New Hope with the entire score for the movie played live in sync to the film. It proved to be a phenomenal event, not just for fans of the film but also for those who know the Williams score note by note from the best selling soundtrack album. Though, a few cuts on that album are slightly different from the pieces used in the actual film which made hearing the score played live that much more intriguing.

Williams has said that he was told by Lucas that the score should provide "an emotional anchor" to the film so he set about creating specific themes to be used for the various characters in the movie as well as ones that would heighten the many large scale action sequences. Williams composed an old fashioned symphonic score which at a time when disco music was the norm was a bit out of the ordinary. Williams recorded the film score with the London Symphony Orchestra over just 12 days and his sweeping and symphonic masterpiece would go on to win him an Oscar.

In a time when so many people watch films on their mobile devices, it was nice to see this iconic film projected on the large screen and played by the Phoenix Symphony, which never fails to impress with their exceptional musical skills and impressive clarity of the acoustics at their many Symphony Hall concerts. I'm sure there were many young people in the audience who've never had the chance to see this particular film on such a large screen which only added to the enjoyment. I also can't remember the last time I saw this film projected as large and noticed details in the backgrounds, spaceships and droids I don't remember seeing before.

Much of Williams' score is brass heavy and seems to be quite a work out for the entire brass section, though you'd never notice it from the succinct musical notes and precision heard during the concert. There are also many iconic moments in the score, from the haunting melody of "Princess Leia's Theme" to the sense of longing for adventure and the duty of responsibility that underscores Luke Skywalker's predicament in "Binary Sunset," and so many other beloved themes which feature solo moments for the clarinet, oboe, violin, percussion and just about every instrument in the orchestra.

Each of these iconic pieces was met with approval from the Symphony Hall audience. Even the "20th Century Fox Fanfare" that appears before the film starts got a large round of applause when it was the first thing the audience heard.

Using an ear piece and a video screen that indicated the exact beats of each musical composition, many of which have tempo changes in sync to the changing film imagery, conductor Nicholas Hersh proved to be exceptional in his ability to not just ensure the members of the Phoenix Symphony hit all of the well known notes in Williams' score but also that they were in sync to the film projected over their heads.

With almost every moment of the 125 minute film scored, it seemed like it could be very tiring for an orchestra since there is little time to rest. However, you'd never guess from the exceptional and assured playing throughout. Only during the cantina scene, when the actual original music soundtrack for the "Cantina Band" cue is heard, did the Phoenix Symphony get a brief break before they were right back at it again.

It proved to be a special treat and experience hearing this beloved score and these well known themes played live while seeing a film that I, and I'm assuming many others in attendance, have seen dozens of times. Since I was familiar with the movie, I occasionally watched Hersh and the orchestra and noted many of them watching the film on the screen above their heads when they had a brief break and also the intensity they exhibited as they played so many themes, motifs and well known musical compositions.

The childlike excitement was apparent and not just from the audience but also from members of the orchestra who appeared just as thrilled to play this iconic score as the audience was to hear it. The joy the crowd felt was witnessed by the immediate standing ovation and steady applause the Phoenix Symphony received after the end credits rolled and the last note of Williams' score was heard. Seeing this classic film while hearing the Oscar winning John Williams music played live resulted in a nostalgic and immersive shared experience for fans of this iconic film and score.

The Phoenix Symphony has performed live accompaniment to well known films in the past, including the first four films in the Harry Potter franchise. They've already announced that the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy, The Empire Strikes Back, will play with live orchestral accompaniment this coming season along with the next two films in the Harry Potter series, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Home Alone.

These concerts clearly are a treat for fans of these films and their scores. If drawing film lovers in to see their favorite movie while a live orchestra plays its score will entice them to come back to hear other pops or classical concerts played by the Phoenix Symphony that is an added bonus.

Phoenix Symphony's 2019 / 2020 POPS and Special Events Concerts!

The Phoenix Symphony has announced their upcoming season. Here is the list of Pops concerts and Special Events in their 2019 / 2020 Season:

Music of Billy Joel starring Michael Cavanaugh 
SYMPHONY HALL 
Friday, September 27, 2019 | 7:30 pm Saturday, September 28, 2019 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Michael Cavanaugh, vocals & piano

Matthew Kasper, conductor

• This concert will take you back to the early days of rock as you experience rock ‘n’ roll classics like never before, live with a full orchestra.

• Relive hits from Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, the Beatles, The Who, Elton John and, of course, Billy Joel performed live by The Phoenix Symphony as vocalist Michael Cavanaugh returns to Symphony Hall.

• Known for his energetic stage presence, vocalist and pianist Michael Cavanaugh was handpicked by Billy Joel to star in the hit Broadway musical Movin’ Out and received both Tony and Grammy-Award nominations for the role.

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, October 11, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, October 12, 2019 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, October 13, 2019 | 2:00 pm

Constantine Kitsopoulos, conductor

• Star Wars and The Phoenix Symphony join forces for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert, featuring the iconic movie projected on the big screen above the orchestra with John Williams’ legendary score performed live.

• The saga continues at Symphony Hall! After the triumphant destruction of the Death Star, the Empire has regrouped—with

Darth Vader leading the hunt for Luke Skywalker.

• All Jedi, young and young at heart, are welcome to attend in costume. Please keep light sabers off during the performance.

This film is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America. The approximate concert duration is 153 minutes including intermission. Family-friendly. Open to everyone ages 5 and up.

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts in association with 20th Century Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd., and Warner/Chappell Music. © 2019 & TM LUCASFILM LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. © DISNEY

The Nightmare Before Christmas™

SYMPHONY HALL

Thursday, October 31, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Friday, November 1, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 2, 2019 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, November 3, 2019 | 2:00 pm

Stuart Chafetz, conductor

• After its 2018 sold-out debut, Tim Burton’s wildly inventive world returns to The Phoenix Symphony on Halloween weekend as the spooky classic The Nightmare Before Christmas™ is shown in its entirety.

• Hear Danny Elfman’s rambunctious, colorful score soar to life as you follow Jack the Pumpkin King’s quest to seize Christmas on the big screen above the full orchestra.

• This is a family-friendly performance and patrons of all ages are welcome to come dressed in Halloween costumes.

This film is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America. Runtime for this performance is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes including intermission. Family-friendly. Open to everyone

ages 5 and up. Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts © All Rights Reserved

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, November 15, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 16, 2019 | 1:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, November 17, 2019 | 2:00 pm

• You-Know-Who™ is not the only one who has returned—Harry Potter™, Ron Weasley™, and Hermione Granger™ are back as well in this unforgettable concert event. Relive the magic with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ displayed on a giant screen in high-definition and accompanied by a symphonic orchestra.

• See Harry and his friends race through the Department of Mysteries, practice Defense Against the Dark Arts in secret, and endure Professor Umbridge—all with Nicholas Hooper’s iconic score.

• All witches and wizards are welcome to wear their finest robes or costumes.

This film is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association of America. Runtime for this performance is approximately 3 hours including intermission. HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. WIZARDING WORLD trademark and logo © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s19)

Holiday Pops

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, November 29, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 30, 2019 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 1, 2019 | 1:00 pm & 5:00 pm

Stuart Chafetz, conductor

Scarlett Strallen, vocalist

Gary Mauer, vocalist

• Experience the magical music of the holiday season with The Phoenix Symphony, The Phoenix Symphony Chorus and acclaimed Broadway vocalists on Thanksgiving weekend.

• This beloved Valley tradition is guaranteed to put you and your family in the holiday spirit with festive favorites and our ever-popular holiday sing-along.

• Kick off the holiday season with family, friends and The Phoenix Symphony as the jolliest of all guest conductors, Stuart Chafetz, returns to the podium at Symphony Hall.

Home Alone in Concert

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, December 6, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, December 7, 2019 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, December 8, 2019 | 2:00 pm

Stuart Chafetz, conductor

The Phoenix Symphony Chorus

• Enjoy the heartwarming holiday blockbuster Home Alone in a totally new way this season as it is projected on the big screen above the orchestra.

• John Williams’ delightful score packs extra punch when The Phoenix Symphony and Phoenix Symphony Chorus perform it live. 

• Fan-favorite guest conductor Stuart Chafetz will lead this unique concert.

This film is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America. The approximate concert duration is 129 minutes including intermission. Family-friendly. Open to everyone ages 5 and up.

© 1990 Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation. All rights reserved.

New Year’s Eve Celebration

SYMPHONY HALL

December 31, 2019 | 6:30 pm

Stuart Chafetz, conductor

Scarlett Strallen, vocalist

Gary Mauer, vocalist

• End the year on a high note with The Phoenix Symphony for the most popular New Year’s Eve Celebration in Arizona featuring famous Strauss waltzes, seasonal classics and Broadway and

contemporary favorites all with a complimentary glass of Champagne.

A Tribute to Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, January 10, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, January 11, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Sunday, January 12, 2020 | 2:00 pm

Matthew Kasper, conductor

Anne Runolfsson, vocalist

Scarlett Strallen, vocalist

Hugh Panaro, vocalist

• Celebrate the timeless music of Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber with The Phoenix Symphony and acclaimed Broadway vocalists.

• Hear Broadway favorites from Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Company, Gypsy, Jesus Christ Superstar and more performed live in Symphony Hall.

• Broadway stars Hugh Panaro, Anne Runolfsson and Scarlett Strallen bring their voices and nearly 100 years of stage experience to complement The Phoenix Symphony. 

Music of ABBA with Rajaton

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, February 7, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, February 8, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Sunday, February 9, 2020 | 2:00 pm

Matthew Kasper, conductor

Rajaton, vocalists & band

• Experience an explosion of sound, light, dance and sheer grooviness at the Music of ABBA concert featuring The Phoenix Symphony and Finnish pop sensation Rajaton in their Phoenix Symphony debut.

• Dance in your seat to favorites like “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance on Me,” “Money, Money, Money,” “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” and “Mamma Mia” performed live.

• Renowned for its genre-crossing repertoire of classical to Europop, Rajaton boasts a double platinum, three platinum, and a collection of gold records.

Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, March 13, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, March 14, 2020 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, March 15, 2020 | 2:00 pm

Matthew Kasper, conductor

• Be our guest at this enchanting multimedia extravaganza featuring The Phoenix Symphony and Broadway vocalists performing live as iconic scenes from your favorite Disney movies are projected on the big screen in Symphony Hall.

• Experience Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Aladdin and The Little Mermaid come to life in this showpiece of Disney’s marvelous movies, music and characters.

• This concert guarantees fun for the whole family, complete with Disney sing-alongs.

Music of David Bowie 
MESA AMPHITHEATRE 
Saturday, March 28, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Tony Vincent, vocalist

• Celebrate the life and legacy of flamboyant rock legend David Bowie with vocalist Tony Vincent, The Phoenix Symphony and a full rock band under the stars at Mesa Amphitheatre.

• This exhilarating musical odyssey showcases the extraordinary range of Bowie’s musical career and features mega hits like “Space Oddity,” “Changes,” “Under Pressure,” “Heroes,” “Rebel Rebel,” “Fame,” “China Girl” and more.

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince™ in Concert

SYMPHONY HALL

Friday, April 17, 2020 | 7:30 pm

Saturday, April 18, 2020 | 1:00 pm & 7:30 pm

Sunday, April 19, 2020 | 2:00 pm

• See when Harry discovers a mysterious potions book in CineConcerts’ presentation of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince™ in Concert!

• Projected onto a giant screen and accompanied by a live symphony orchestra, you can join in on Harry’s adventures as never before.

• Nicolas Hooper’s wonderful score and J.K. Rowling’s classic tale combine to deliver all the adventure, humor, and suspense you remember in an experience you’ll never forget.

• All witches and wizards are welcome to wear their finest robes or costumes.

This film is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association of America. Runtime for this performance is approximately 3 hours including intermission. Family-friendly. Open to everyone ages 5 and up. 

Charlie Chaplin’s City Lights 
SYMPHONY HALL Friday, April 24, 2020 | 7:30 pm Saturday, April 25, 2020 | 7:30 pm Sunday, April 26, 2020 | 2:00 pm

William Eddins, conductor

• You will laugh, you will cry, you will love this family friendly multimedia concert that exposes generations to this 1931 Charlie Chaplin classic, a catalyst for the motion pictures and movie score industry.

• Rediscover Charlie Chaplin’s acclaimed silent romantic comedy City Lights presented in all its cinematic glory on the big screen as the score Chaplin himself composed is performed live by The

Phoenix Symphony.

• Roger Ebert hails…“If only one of Charles Chaplin’s films could be preserved, “City Lights” would come the closest to representing all the different notes of his genius. It contains the slapstick, the pathos, the pantomime, the effortless physical coordination, the melodrama, the bawdiness, the grace, and, of course, the Little Tramp – the character said, at one time, to be the most famous image on earth.”

This film is rated G by the Motion Picture Association of America. The approximate concert duration is 107 minutes including intermission. Music for City Lights © Roy Export Company Establishment and Bourne Co. except “La Violetera” © José Padilla.

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue 
SYMPHONY HALL 
Friday, May 15, 2020 | 7:30 pm Saturday, May 16, 2020 | 7:30 pm Sunday, May 17, 2020 | 2:00 pm

Tito Muñoz, conductor

Marcus Roberts Trio, band

• Celebrate George Gershwin’s musical legacy with a concert of his effervescent masterworks, including the iconic Rhapsody in Blue as the Marcus Roberts Trio joins the Phoenix Symphony for the first time.

• The Marcus Roberts Trio is known for its virtuosic style and entirely new approach to jazz trio performance - while most jazz trios have the piano front and center, all members of the Marcus Roberts Trio share equally in shaping the direction of the music.

• Virginia G. Piper Music Director, Tito Muñoz leads The Phoenix Symphony and the Marcus Robert Trio in this energetic concert.

Troupe Vertigo 
SYMPHONY HALL
Friday, May 29, 2020 | 7:30 pm Saturday, May 30, 2020 | 7:30 pm Sunday, May 31, 2020 | 2:00 pm

Matthew Kasper, conductor

Troupe Vertigo, cirque

• Be amazed by hula hoops, contortionists, gravity defying aerialists and jugglers as Troupe Vertigo joins The Phoenix Symphony on stage – and 40 feet above it. 
• Don’t miss the high-flying, talented cirque Troupe Vertigo as they return to the stage with the Symphony for an all new show.

• Resident conductor Matthew Kasper leads The Phoenix Symphony in this family-friendly concert.

www.phoenixsymphony.org

review - Broadway and Beyond with Matt Doyle and the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

Matt Doyle
Photo by Luke Fontana

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

Click here for more information on this production that runs through February 10th.

"Last March, Matt Doyle appeared with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra in a concert performance of West Side Story in the role of Tony. Doyle is back with the orchestra, headlining a series of three solo concerts titled "Broadway and Beyond" that features selections from several well-known musicals, including West Side Story, plus a few pop hits.
...Under Stuart Chafetz's playful, bright and expert conducting, Doyle and the Phoenix Symphony sound sublime throughout the evening. The selections sung by Doyle and the instrumental pieces played by the Symphony are well-mixed throughout the concert. The overture for Cole Porter's Anything Goes gets the evening off to a bright and bouncy start, with melodic violin solos throughout the piece by Magdalena Martinic-Jercic. This is followed by Doyle delivering a beautiful version of Porter's "Night and Day" from Gay Divorce with a jazzy arrangement...Throughout the evening Doyle talks about how important it was as a young teenager when he discovered a "home" performing in community theatre. He also stresses the importance of arts education and of fulfilling your dreams and also speaks about the other things he likes to do besides performing, including songwriting. He sings a song he wrote with Will Van Dyke entitled "Home" that has simple yet effective lyrics....His soaring delivery of "Johanna" is beautiful. The first act ends with another Sondheim song, "Being Alive" from Company, which Doyle sings with clear and impeccable diction and a passion-filled delivery....Throughout the concert, Doyle shows he is capable of singing a range of songs with a voice that is pure, clean and bright. Chafetz's conducting and the expert performances by every member of the Phoenix Symphony are top notch... " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

review - HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

By Gil Benbrook

Unless you've been living under a rock the last 20 years you are already well aware of the global phenomenon of J.K. Rollings' fantasy book series that centers on the young wizard Harry Potter and the subsequent Warner Brothers film adaptations.

The Phoenix Symphony has featured the music from the Potter films in previous concerts and starting last season they've also been presenting the feature films, in order, projected in their entirety on a large screen over the Symphony Hall stage with the Symphony accompanying the film playing the soundtrack live. Last season they kicked off the series with the first two film adaptations and this season they are presenting the third and fourth films.

Last week brought the third screen adaptation Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban to the Symphony Hall stage. I'll admit that this film is my favorite of the 8 in the series and the John Williams score, the last that he wrote for the Potter films, is full of a wide range of memorable themes and varying musical styles. Williams received an Oscar nomination for his score which, like the film, is more adventurous than the two previous entries in the series.

The 2004 movie follows the adventures of teenager Harry and his close friends, and fellow wizards, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger and takes place over their third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. It was the film to introduce such memorable characters as Sirius Black, Harry's godfather, the evil demontors, who are the guards of Azkaban prison which Sirius has recently escaped from, as well as the mystical Marauder's Map, which allows the person holding it to see where anyone is within the grounds of Hogwarts and the fast moving, invisible triple-decker Knight's Bus that transports wizards around. Directed by Alfonso Cuarón, who took over the reigns from Chris Columbus, who helmed the first two films, the movie features a more mature tone and a fairly complex plot.

John Jesensky, the conductor for this concert, has past experience conducting other live film scores for CineConcerts, the company founded in 2013 that presents the Potter series, plus several other famous films including The Godfather, with live orchestral accompaniment around the world. Jesensky's expert conducting of the Phoenix Symphony and his proficient musicianship and playful nature worked exceedingly well in ensuring the entire film presentation came across exceptionally.

You might wonder how a live orchestra can stay in sync with a film that is being projected over their heads with dozens of soundtrack cues that run from several minutes to just a few seconds. It's all well orchestrated with a monitor situated directly in front of the conductor that displays the film while it's also being projected overhead. The image on the monitor has the addition of numbers that tie to the bars of the score and flashing symbols that note both the beginning and end of a cue as well as the tempo of each musical piece. While those specific elements may make it seem easy to ensure the orchestra is always in sync, having to be knowledgeable of the film while also constantly watching the monitor and at the same time watching the score, while also focusing on the specific requirements of conducting a large orchestra, takes a special skill and Jesensky was more than up to the challenge.

John Williams’ superb score for the film features the now familiar “Hedwig’s Theme” plus an abundance of themes and cues that run the range from subtle to grandiose, including the high spirited “The Knight Bus,” the frightening “Apparition on the Train”, which introduces the Dementors, the beautiful “A Window to the Past” and the dark and brooding “The Werewolf Scene.” The score gives solos for just about every instrument and section within the orchestra and the Phoenix Symphony excelled in delivering every nuance and high flying moment of the score with skill.

Williams' score also includes a few moments that feature a chorus, including the musical piece “Double Trouble”, which includes the song "Something Wicked this Way Comes." The Phoenix Symphony Chorus provided rich vocals for these sections at the concert. Also, “Mischief Managed!”, a summary of the score’s main themes which plays over the end credits, was the perfect way to end this event since it wraps up the film's major themes and also gives the entire orchestra an expanded musical section, that runs over 10 minutes, to demonstrate their exceptional skills.

The Phoenix Symphony Orchestra will be presenting the next film in the Potter franchise, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, from April 26-28 as well as Star Wars Ep.IV: A New Hope, also with live orchestra accompaniment as the entire film plays overhead, from March 15-March 17

review - THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

by Gil Benbrook

Since the advent of the cinema, and the addition of musical soundtracks to motion pictures, there have been thousands of composers who have provided their creative talents to add musical themes and motifs to movies. Yet, perhaps none is as famous or as highly respected as John Williams. With hundreds of film scores and a record breaking 51 Academy Award nominations for Best Score, Williams is truly not only one of the most prolific film composers but also one of the most well regarded. While Williams' highest number of contributions are to the Star Wars films, with scores for eight of the films in the series and a planned score for the upcoming Episode IX film next year, he's also written wide ranging scores that feature jazz, pop and classical musical styles.

Last week the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra presented a series of concerts that celebrated Williams' film contributions. The timing of the concerts was interesting in that they happened to not only coincide with the Phoenix Comic Fest, where dozens of individuals were dressed up as Star Wars characters, but also with the release of Solo, the latest film in the Star Wars franchise that features a few of Williams' classic themes, and they happened over Memorial Day weekend, which tied into a few of the various films Williams scored which were heard in the concert that feature historic events of the American armed services.

Guest conductor Richard Kaufman, who was a studio violinist for many years in Los Angeles and played on several John Williams soundtrack recordings, provided a playful yet assured control of the Phoenix Symphony throughout the concert as well as added personal antidotes, stories and quotes from Williams about many of the pieces. The soundtrack selections included in the concert were varied and featured several of Williams' most famous pieces along with a few rarely heard works. As usual, the Phoenix Symphony showed once again how efficient and expert their playing is and Williams' compositions featured plenty of chances for every section of the orchestra to be highlighted along with featuring many solo moments in some of his most famous themes

Three films that tied into the Memorial Day weekend setting started the concert off including "Hymn to the Fallen" from Saving Private Ryan, which is a somber piece with a beautiful trumpet solo, and this section also included two selections from Midway, one of the scores which Kaufman played on, including the bright and jaunty "The Men of Yorktown" and the forceful and powerful "Midway March." Also, while the film 1941 doesn't exactly feature any historic American military event, it does have ties to Pearl Harbor and the constantly driving "March" from the film is intriguing in how it starts slow with just a few instruments, builds to an all out full piece that features the entire orchestra yet also returns a few times to its softer and quieter beginning.

Besides Star Wars, there are four other blockbuster film series which Williams composed their instantly recognizable themes and which all were heard in this concert. These included the "Shark Theme" from Jaws, which beautifully shows how Williams was able to use specific instruments to portray the menace and often unseen terror just off screen in this film, and the majestic theme from Jurassic Park. Superman, which Williams said was like revisiting his childhood when he wrote its score received two contributions, including the "Love Theme' from  the film which features a beautiful flute solo and the driving, and soaring "Superman March." While the "March" from Raiders of Lost Ark wasn't a selection for the night, it is interesting to see how Williams incorporates the themes heard in that piece throughout his scores for those films, including how it breaks up the gentle and romantic moments in "Marion’s Theme" from The Adventures of Indiana Jones films as well as how it is used sporadically in "Scherzo for Motorcycle and Orchestra" from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

The concert also included two rarely heard Williams' compositions, including "If We Were In Love" from Yes, Giorgio, a sweeping and romantic piece which was Williams' only contribution to the score for this film and which was used in a sequence featuring the lead couple, one of which was Luciano Pavarotti, as they rode in a hot air balloon over the wine country of California. The first film that Williams scored for Steven Spielberg, and which is rarely heard in concert due to the requirement of a skilled harmonica player, was Sugarland Express which featured an impressive, bluesy harmonica contribution from Bernie Fields. Also, the powerful "The Devil’s Dance" from The Witches of Eastwick was an added treat since Kaufman worked on the film and spoke about how he prepared both Susan Sarandon and Jack Nicholson so they could portray musicians in the movie realistically. He also let us in on a little secret; the close-ups in the film of Nicholson's character's hands playing the piano are actually Kaufman's.

The evening ended with four pieces from Williams' Star Wars scores, including "The Forest Battle," which includes many playful moments among the rousing and driving composition, and a new arrangement of "Han And The Princess" from The Empire Strikes Back, which Williams himself recently debuted and which features a lovely flute solo. "The Rebellion Is Reborn" from The Last Jedi is a stirring and stunning piece from the score which garnered Williams his 51st Oscar nomination, and the concert ended with the "Main Title" from Star Wars, which is arguably his most famous piece of work and a fitting end to a beautiful evening.

I'm constantly impressed with not only the level of expert musicianship that the Phoenix Symphony brings to every concert I've attended but also in the wide range of music they play across hundreds of concerts each season. From classical music to popular works, including the excellent selections heard in this evening of John Williams compositions, there truly is something for every music lover in their season. Also, for next season, the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra promises a series of concerts that promises to be truly special when they provide Williams' full, live orchestral soundtrack to Star Wars: A New Hope as the entire film plays on a large screen above the orchestra.

review - WEST SIDE STORY IN CONCERT - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

"With the perfect combination of drama, music and dance, and containing some of the most well-known theatre songs, West Side Story is a true classic American musical. For four performances last weekend, the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra presented a spectacular concert version of the music from this musical under the assured conducting of the Symphony's music director, Tito Muñoz..Bernstein's score is beautiful, while also incredibly complex in the level of nuance and intricacy in the musical details. The one song in the score that best shows the number of layers and texture is the "Tonight (Quintet)" that features all of the major roles and the entire ensemble. The complexity and detail in the counterpoint of that song is not just thrilling but also incredibly stunning. ...From the crisp, staccato beats of "Cool" to the ebb and flow of melody in the romantic ballads like "Somewhere" and "One Hand, One Heart," and the heat and intensity of the "Mambo," the level of musical sophistication is high. Bernstein's ability to have every section of the orchestra prominent and highlighted at various moments is also more apparent when you hear this music in a concert setting where the orchestra isn't hidden in a pit...I believe that West Side Story is Bernstein's most accomplished, moving and significant musical theatre score. With a story and a message that is still relevant today, incredibly dynamic and polished playing by the Phoenix Symphony, a group of talented vocalists, and the expert control of both the orchestra and the singers by conductor Tito Muñoz, this West Side Story in Concert was an incredibly rewarding experience. " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

cast announcement - WEST SIDE STORY IN CONCERT - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

“I feel pretty, Oh, so pretty!” In 1957, Leonard Bernstein partnered with choreographer Jerome Robbins, writer Arthur Laurents, and lyricist Stephen Sondheim to create one of the most cherished musicals in American theater. Be there as Tito Muñoz and The Phoenix Symphony celebrate the 60th Anniversary of West Side Story with a full performance of the concert version Bernstein’s legendary smash hit.

This performance celebrates the music of West Side Story featuring acclaimed Broadway vocalists along with your Phoenix Symphony.

Matt Doyle, Tony
Morgan Hernandez, Maria
Gabrielle McClinton, Anita
Toby Yatso, Riff
Skylar Bean, Action
Edward Maldonado, Bernardo
Lourde Childs, Boy Soprano

ASU Ensemble
- Brielle Amrein
- John Batchan
- Elyssa Blonder
- Anissa Griego
- Julian Mendoza
- Vaibu Mohan
- Drake Sherman
- Vaughn Sherman

Tito Muñoz, conductor
Darren Katz, Director
Brian DeMaris, Associate Professor and Artistic Director of Lyric Opera Theatre
Jacqueline Bernard, Costume Designer

Fri 3/2/18 7:30PM
Sat 3/3/18 2:00PM
Sat 3/3/18 7:30PM
Sun 3/4/18 2:00PM

www.phoenixsymphony.org

Phoenix Symphony Orchestra's 2018 / 2019 POPS and Broadway Themed Concert

Sinatra and Friends
SYMPHONY HALL
September 21, 2018 | 7:30 pm
September 22, 2018 | 7:30 pm
September 23, 2018 | 2:00 pm

The iconic tunes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and a swingin’ big band kick off the 2018/19 APS Pops Series. Be whisked back in time to the Sands Hotel Copa Room and get set for all your favorite standards including Rat Pack mega-hits like “Come Fly With Me”, “Luck be a Lady”, “Mr. Bojangles” and a dozen more favorites from this timeless era performed live with The Phoenix Symphony!

Titanic Scores: The Music of James Horner
SYMPHONY HALL
October 5, 2018 | 7:30 pm
October 6, 2018 | 7:30 pm
October 7, 2018 | 2:00 pm

Experience powerful and inspiring film scores live as The Phoenix
Symphony presents a moving tribute to one of Hollywood’s most
legendary composers, the late James Horner. Horner wrote some of the
best-known film scores in cinema history and was the worthy winner of
two Academy Awards, six Grammys and an IFMCA Award. The Phoenix
Symphony will highlight the epic scores of Braveheart, Cocoon, Aliens,
The Mask of Zorro, Apollo 13, Titanic and more.

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas ™

What’s this, what’s this?! It’s the wildly inventive world of Disney Tim Burton’s macabre classic The Nightmare Before Christmas™ shown in its entirety on a huge screen at Symphony Hall. Danny Elfman’s rambunctious, colorful score will roar to life in the hands of the The Phoenix Symphony as you follow Jack the Pumpkin King’s quest to seize Christmas on a large screen above the orchestra.

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts © All Rights Reserved
Fri 10/19/18 7:30PM
Sat 10/20/18 7:30PM
Sun 10/21/18 2:00PM

The Second City Guide to the Symphony
SYMPHONY HALL
November 9, 2018 | 7:30 pm
November 10, 2018 | 7:30 pm
November 11, 2018 | 2:00 pm

The Second City Guide to the Symphony is a light-hearted blend of
hilarious sketch comedy and beautiful music — including works by
great masters such as Mozart and Mahler alongside hilarious original
orchestral songs. Don’t miss out as Chicago’s legendary comedy troupe
The Second City joins The Phoenix Symphony for a celebration of
shared love of the symphony orchestra, taking a satirical but loving look
at the players, the composers, the personalities, and even the audience.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner
of Azkaban™ in Concert
SYMPHONY HALL
November 23, 2018 | 7:30 pm
November 24, 2018 | 1:00 pm
November 24, 2018 | 7:30 pm
November 25, 2018 | 2:00 pm

Relive the magic of your favorite wizard in Harry Potter and the Prisoner
of Azkaban™ in Concert. Based on the third installment of J.K. Rowling’s
classic saga, fans of all ages can now experience the thrilling tale
accompanied by live music from your Phoenix Symphony as Harry
soars across the big screen.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing
Rights © JKR. (s18)

Holiday Pops
SYMPHONY HALL
November 30, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 1, 2018 | 2:00 pm
December 1, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 2, 2018 | 1:00 pm
December 2, 2018 | 5:00 pm

It’s the most wonderful time of year as the Valley’s most beloved
holiday tradition, Holiday Pops, returns to Symphony Hall. Join The
Phoenix Symphony and The Phoenix Symphony Chorus to experience
this festive concert of seasonal favorites and the ever-popular Holiday
Sing-Along, guaranteed to put you and your family in the holiday spirit.

Cirque Holiday Spectacular
SYMPHONY HALL
December 7, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 8, 2018 | 2:00 pm
December 8, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 9, 2018 | 2:00 pm

Back by popular demand, Troupe Vertigo returns to The Phoenix
Symphony with an all new holiday show. This year, the LA cirque troupe
brings their gravity-defying acts to the Valley with a special dose of
holiday cheer. Hear holiday favorites like “White Christmas” and “Deck
the Halls” and beloved movements from masterpieces like Swan Lake
while hula hoops, strong men, contortionists, aerialists and jugglers
perform on stage… and 40 feet above it!

Symphony and Chill:
The Music of the Flatscreen
SYMPHONY HALL
December 28, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 29, 2018 | 7:30 pm
December 30, 2018 | 2:00 pm

Get off the couch and experience the music from your favorite
television shows in a completely new way. Hear the thrilling scores
from hit shows and films like Lost, Downton Abbey, Batman, Superman,
The Adventures of Robin Hood, X-Men: The Last Stand and many more of
your favorites performed live by The Phoenix Symphony.

Broadway and Beyond
with Matt Doyle and the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra
SYMPHONY HALL
February 8, 2019 | 7:30 pm
February 9, 2019 | 7:30 pm
February 10, 2019 | 2:00 pm
Matt Doyle returns to The Phoenix Symphony fresh off his show stopping performance in West Side Story in Concert with an all-new Broadway show. A dynamic and accomplished actor, Doyle is best known for his roles in Broadway’s The Book of Mormon, War Horse, Spring Awakening and the hit CW television show Gossip Girl. Don’t miss Matt Doyle and your Phoenix Symphony for a dazzling musical tour of Broadway.

Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope™
SYMPHONY HALL
March 15, 2019 | 7:30 pm
March 16, 2019 | 7:30 pm
March 17, 2019 | 2:00 pm

Coming to your Phoenix Symphony from a galaxy far, far away…the
most epic space adventure of all time! Join Luke Skywalker on his
exhilarating journey as the film that started it all - Star Wars: A New
Hope™ - is projected on a huge screen above the orchestra! From the
triumphant opening fanfare to the ethereal “Princess Leia Theme,” The
Phoenix Symphony brings John Williams’ unforgettable score to life for
this powerful multimedia experience.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire™
in Concert
SYMPHONY HALL
April 26, 2019 | 7:30 pm
April 27, 2019 | 1:00 pm
April 27, 2019 | 7:30 pm
April 28, 2019 | 2:00 pm

The Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series continues with Harry Potter
and the Goblet of Fire™. The legendary score will be performed by
The Phoenix Symphony as the full feature film is projected
simultaneously on the big screen.

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
J.K. ROWLING`S WIZARDING WORLD™ J.K. Rowling and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing
Rights © JKR. (s18)

The Texas Tenors
SYMPHONY HALL
May 17, 2019 | 7:30 pm
May 18, 2019 | 7:30 pm
May 19, 2019 | 2:00 pm

Back by popular demand and hot off their latest PBS Special: RISE,
America’s Got Talent Emmy Award-winners The Texas Tenors return to
their home away from home to perform with The Phoenix Symphony.
Don’t miss The Texas Tenors and The Phoenix Symphony for a night
of classic rock, pop and country hits and Broadway favorites all with
a healthy dose of Texas charm.

Broadway Celebration
SYMPHONY HALL
May 31, 2019 | 7:30 pm
June 1, 2019 | 2:00 pm
June 1, 2019 | 7:30 pm

Tip your hat to Broadway and join The Phoenix Symphony and
acclaimed soloists for a night of Broadway hits. Experience your favorite
Broadway tunes from The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables Mamma
Mia, Wicked and Hamilton and many more!

phoenixsymphony.org

review - "Bernstein and Robbins: A Broadway Celebration" - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

"2018 marks the centennial anniversary of the births of both Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins. To celebrate this occasion the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra commissioned an original concert devoted to these two Broadway icons. For three concerts last week, this special event featured exceptional performances from the symphony and a quartet of New York based singers who contributed solid vocals on a wide-ranging selection of material that represented the importance these two men had on the theatre world. Scott Coulter served as the narrator of the concert and his well-written, detailed and slightly playful narrative was delivered with both a clear understanding of these two men and also a deep connection to the audience. Under the baton of conductor Stuart Chafetz, Coulter and guest vocalists Kerry O'Malley, Christine Cornish Smith, and Joshua Israel performed over a dozen classic showtunes associated with these two famous men....Their collaboration began with the 1944 ballet "Fancy Free," which was the basis for the musical On the Town. The opening number from that show, "New York, New York," made an energetic start for this concert and allowed a quick introduction to the vocal abilities of all four singers which was followed by Cornish Smith's deliciously comical performance of that show's "I Can Cook Too." ...The original production of Peter Pan featured Robbins' direction and choreography, and Coulter's charming and stunning performance of "Neverland" from that show, with John Boswell's beautiful and rich piano accompaniment, was a major delight. ..Probably the most successful contribution Bernstein and Robbins made, with the addition of lyricist Stephen Sondheim and book writer Arthur Laurents, was West Side Story. The concert featured several excellent performances from that show, including a beautiful duet of "Something's Coming" that found the voices of Israel and Coulter's blending and harmonizing together to deliver gorgeous sounds. Israel showed off his skillful freestyle tab abilities in a solo spot that flowed into an expertly jazzy performance of "Cool" sung by Cornish Smith that featured excellent piano and bass solos. Coulter's lilting performance of "Maria" soared, with each note floating and hanging in the air to be savored....The Phoenix Symphony Orchestra continues to provide a wide range of concerts, including numerous "pops" shows that feature music from beyond the classical realm. The evening that focused on the contributions of Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins wasn't just a tribute to these masters of the American musical theatre but also a testament to the exceptional musicianship of the Phoenix Symphony.. " -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

review - LEA SALONGA WITH THE PHOENIX SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Lea Salonga

highlights from local critics reviews - (click link at bottom of each review to read complete review)

"...Lea Salonga's recent concerts with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra featured exceptional singing from Salonga and skilled playing from the PSO on excellent renditions of many songs associated with Salonga as well as numerous other hits from the Broadway and pop songbooks.
Lea Salonga won the Tony and Olivier Awards for her role of Kim in Miss Saigon and also sang for two Disney princesses, in the films Aladdin and Mulan. The passion she brings to songs from the musicals and films she has appeared in is just as strong when she sings songs for roles she didn't originate. She also makes sure that the meaning of every word she is singing is delivered with clarity. ...she still instills each word of the song with power...in "I'd Give My Life for You" from Miss Saigon, which is the passionate plea of a young mother that is also filled with pain and anger. "Reflection" from Mulan and "Burn" from Hamilton, while two very different songs, both focus on how a woman can become strong when faced with adversity and forced to stand alone without a man by her side. Three Stephen Sondheim songs, "Send in the Clowns" from A Little Night Music, "Another Hundred People" from Company, and "Something's Coming" from West Side Story (music by Leonard Bernstein), also were a testament to Salonga's ability to inflict nuance and complete understanding on lyrics that are filled with soul searching, desire, and personal inflection. On all of these songs, as well as the other songs she sang, her enunciation was flawless and her punctuated delivery of each lyric was filled with meaning....two numbers from Les Misérables...were simply exceptional. ...In addition to musical and film songs, Salonga also included a medley of numbers written by Michael Legrand and Alan and Marilyn Bergman featuring a lovely version of the Oscar-winning "The Windmills of Your Mind" and a soaring "A Piece of Sky" from the film Yentl...Salonga's stellar vocal control is full of power, precision and clarity. Her warm stage presence, clear connection with both the audience and the orchestra, personal stories, and spontaneous interjections made the whole affair genuine and refreshing..." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)

review - THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS - Phoenix Symphony Orchestra

by Gil Benbrook

I don't believe there is another film composer that has written as many instantly recognizable themes as John Williams. The recipient of a vast number of awards, including five Oscars and four Golden Globes, with 50 Academy Award nominations Williams is the second most nominated person in Oscar history with only Walt Disney with 59 nominations ahead of him. Williams won Oscars for his soundtracks to Jaws, Star Wars, Schindler's List and ET and he also composed the scores for Superman, Raiders of the Lost Ark and the first three Harry Potter films. With the four recent concert performances of John Williams' music by the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra and another series of concerts already scheduled for next season, the popularity of John Williams is clearly not diminishing in the Phoenix area.

Under Robert Franz's fun, personable and passionate conduction, the Phoenix Symphony performed both many beloved and recognizable themes as well as some slightly lesser known selections from Williams' oeuvre. The playing by the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra throughout the entire concert was superb.

The audience was thoroughly entertained by a trio of Star Wars selections, including one of Williams' most recent compositions, "Scherzo for X-Wing" from The Force Awakens along with "Across the Stars" from Attack of the Clones and The Imperial March from The Empire Strikes Back, which ended the first half of the concert and featured Franz dueling with Darth Vader on stage. But the full crowd was equally as moved by some of Williams' non-film compositions. These included the rousing "Summon the Heroes," which was written for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, and the sweeping and beautiful "Liberty Fanfare" which Williams wrote for the Centennial of the Statue of Liberty.

Steven Moeckel's expert violin solos brought a brightness and clarity to the romance filled Tango ("Por una Cabeza")  by Carlos Gardel as well as delivered a seriousness in the simplicity of "The Theme from Schindler's List." Moeckel's dedication and expert playing was matched by every other musician on stage at the Orpheum Theatre.

Other selections included a quartet of film flying numbers that soared to the ceiling of the Orpheum and which featured a beautiful woodwinds only arrangement of "Nimbus 2000" from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, along with that film's "Hedwig's Theme," Hook's "Flight to Neverland" and "Adventures on Earth" from ET: the Extraterrestrial. While "The Raiders March" from Raiders of the Lost Ark is instantly recognizable, Franz and the PSO proved that some of Williams' other film selections are just as iconic. These included the stunning "The Devil's Dance from The Witches of Eastwick and the moving, brave and courageous "Hymn to the Fallen" from Saving Private Ryan. The Cowboys Overture, with its old West style is a prime example in how Williams is able to adapt his compositions to any type of film to help an audience instantly connect with the movie's time and place.

Williams is also a master in ensuring his arrangements draw upon the vast capabilities of the orchestra. He elicits heroic notes from the brass section while continually drawing upon the strings to evoke a sense of flight that send us soaring into space. He also instills a sense of longing or desire from his succinct ability to draw stunning notes from instruments such as the French horn, flute and oboe. It is his ability to know exactly which instrument will deliver the feeling that each moment needs to deliver the feeling of the screen character or action moment that has truly made Williams into the

The popularity of Williams will continue as next season includes another set of concerts solely dedicated to his compositions in May, another concert with music from both the Star Wars and Star Trek universes that will feature some Williams selections, as well as weekends in October and January where the first two Harry Potter films that Williams scored will be shown with full orchestra accompaniment.

”The Music of John Williams” with the Phoenix Symphony played four performances on May 12th, 13th and 14th, 2017 at the Opeheum Theatre in Phoenix. Information for upcoming performances with the Phoenix Symphony can be found at http://www.phoenixsymphony.org.

Phoenix Symphony's 2017 / 2018 POPS Series!

The Rat Pack is Back!
SYMPHONY HALL
September 22, 2017 | 7:30 pm
September 23, 2017 | 7:30 pm
September 24, 2017 | 2:00 pm
The iconic tunes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and a swingin’
big band kick off the 2017/18 APS Pops Series. Be whisked back in time to the
Sands Hotel Copa Room and get set for all your favorite standards, including
Rat Pack mega-hits like “Come Fly With Me,” “Luck be a Lady,” “Mr. Bojangles”
and a dozen more favorites from this timeless era all performed live with The
Phoenix Symphony!

A Broadway Celebration of Leonard
Bernstein and Jerome Robbins
SYMPHONY HALL
October 13, 2017 | 7:30 pm
October 14, 2017 | 7:30 pm
October 15, 2017 | 2:00 pm
Join The Phoenix Symphony for a night of music and dancing celebrating the
Broadway partnership of composer Leonard Bernstein and choreographer
Jerome Robbins. This original production will highlight the decades-long artistic
excellence of composer Leonard Bernstein and choreographer Jerome Robbins.
Acclaimed Broadway song and dance artists will perform hits from West Side
Story, The King and I, Gypsy, Fiddler on the Roof and so much more. If you like
musicals, you’ll love A Broadway Celebration with The Phoenix Symphony.

Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue
SYMPHONY HALL
November 24, 2017 | 7:30 pm
November 25, 2017 | 7:30 pm
November 26, 2017 | 2:00 pm
Join The Phoenix Symphony as the acclaimed Ted Rosenthal Trio performs
George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue with its unique blend of classical
inspiration and jazz-influenced effects. Teaming up with The Phoenix
Symphony, this trio of New York musicians Ted Rosenthal, piano; Martin Wind,
bass; Tim Horner, drums, perform an unforgettable night of Gershwin and jazz.

Holiday Pops
SYMPHONY HALL
December 1, 2017 | 7:30 pm
December 2, 2017 | 2:00 pm
December 2, 2017 | 7:30 pm
December 3, 2017 | 2:00 pm
It’s the most wonderful time of year as the Valley’s most beloved holiday
tradition, Holiday Pops, returns to Symphony Hall. Join The Phoenix
Symphony and The Phoenix Symphony Chorus to experience this festive
concert of seasonal favorites and the ever-popular Holiday Sing-Along,
guaranteed to put you and your family in the holiday spirit.

The Tenors
SYMPHONY HALL
January 19, 2018 | 7:30 pm
January 20, 2018 | 7:30 pm
January 21, 2018 | 2:00 pm
Fresh off the release of their fourth studio album and second PBS Special,
Under One Sky, this Canadian trio with multiple No. 1 Billboard Classical
Crossover albums brings their signature blend of classical and contemporary
pop to The Phoenix Symphony for three captivating performances. Hear
classical and pop favorites like “Lean on Me,” “You Are So Beautiful,” “Hallelujah,”
“Besame Mucho” and “Ave Maria” when multi-Platinum, JUNO Award-winning
vocal group The Tenors make their first appearance at Symphony Hall.

West Side Story in Concert
SYMPHONY HALL
March 2, 2018 | 7:30 pm
March 3, 2018 | 7:30 pm
March 4, 2018 | 2:00 pm
“I feel pretty, Oh, so pretty!” In 1957, Leonard Bernstein partnered with
choreographer Jerome Robbins, writer Arthur Laurents, and lyricist Stephen
Sondheim to create one of the most cherished musicals in American theater.
Be there as Tito Muñoz and The Phoenix Symphony celebrate the 60th
Anniversary of West Side Story with a full concert performance of Bernstein’s
smash hit. In a new production, acclaimed Broadway vocalists, directors and
set designers will offer a fresh take on this poignant and provocative classic,
renowned for its miraculous fusion of song and dance.

The Great American Songbook
with Storm Large
SYMPHONY HALL
March 23, 2018 | 7:30 pm
March 24, 2018 | 7:30 pm
March 25, 2018 | 2:00 pm
Pink Martini vocalist Storm Large performs favorites from the Great American
Songbook reflecting the many faces of love, life and loss. Alongside The Phoenix
Symphony, Storm gives audiences breathtaking renditions of “Lady Is A Tramp,”
“My Funny Valentine,” “Someone To Watch Over Me” and more. Storm Large shot
to national prominence as a 2006 finalist on the CBS show Rock Star: Supernova
and has since forged a vibrant career as a solo artist and lead vocals of Pink
Martini, bringing her international acclaim. Don’t miss Storm Large with The
Phoenix Symphony.

Sgt. Pepper’s 50th with Classical
Mystery Tour
SYMPHONY HALL
April 20, 2018 | 7:30 pm
April 21, 2018 | 7:30 pm
April 22, 2018 | 2:00 pm
Classical Mystery Tour is back to celebrate the 50th anniversary of The
Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The show features original
members of the Broadway sensation Beatlemania performing two hours of
non-stop hits. Hear “Penny Lane,” “I Am the Walrus,” “The Long and Winding
Road” and more – all performed exactly as they were originally recorded.
The Los Angeles Times calls the show “more than just an incredible
simulation.” If you like the Beatles, you’ll love Classical Mystery Tour
in concert!

Live From Broadway
SYMPHONY HALL
May 18, 2018 | 7:30 pm
May 19, 2018 | 7:30 pm
May 20, 2018 | 2:00 pm
Take a stroll through Times Square as a star vocalists join The Phoenix
Symphony for hits from the Broadway of today and the timeless classics
of yesterday. Experience the showstoppers from Wicked, Mamma Mia,
Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, Chicago and many more live
with The Phoenix Symphony.

Music of John Williams
SYMPHONY HALL
May 25, 2018 | 7:30 pm
May 26, 2018 | 7:30 pm
May 27, 2018 | 2:00 pm
Best known for his iconic film scores and celebrated music, John Williams is
one of the most popular and successful American orchestral composers of
the modern age. Hear The Phoenix Symphony perform highlights from
over 60 years of John Williams scores, including Star Wars, Harry Potter, E.T.:
The Extra-Terrestrial, Indiana Jones, Jaws, Schindler’s List, Born on the Fourth of
July and many more.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™+
SYMPHONY HALL
October 6, 2017 | 7:30 pm
October 7, 2017 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
October 8, 2017 | 2:00 pm
Experience the film that started it all with the Arizona debut of Harry Potter
and the Sorcerer’s Stone™ in Concert. Relive the adventures of Harry and his
friends as The Phoenix Symphony performs John Williams’ unforgettable
score with the full movie on the big screen above the orchestra. Don’t
miss this magical live concert event of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone™
in Concert.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™+
SYMPHONY HALL
January 5, 2018 | 7:30 pm
January 6, 2018 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
January 7, 2018 | 2:00 pm
The Harry PotterTM Film Concert Series continues with Harry Potter and The
Chamber of SecretsTM in Concert. Experience the magic of John Williams’
legendary score performed live with The Phoenix Symphony as the
complete film is projected on the big screen above the orchestra.

Music of Pink Floyd with Laser Light Show
MESA AMPHITHEATRE
March 10, 2018 | 7:30 pm
The Phoenix Symphony bridges the gulf between rock ’n’ roll and classical
music with the Music of Pink Floyd. Amplified by a full rock band and
singer Randy Jackson’s vocals, The Phoenix Symphony captures Pink Floyd’s
ethereal flow of music and effects while churning out new musical colors.
This one-of-a-kind concert features an impressive laser and light show set to
17 Pink Floyd songs, including “Money,” “Learning to Fly,” “Comfortably Numb”
and selections from the band’s 1979 hit album The Wall all performed under
the stars live with The Phoenix Symphony. This outdoor concert offers reserved
and general admission seating.

Star Wars vs Star Trek:
The Music of Deep Space
SYMPHONY HALL
May 24, 2018 | 8:00 pm
Get set for an intergalactic musical showdown with Star Wars vs Star Trek:
The Music of Deep Space as The Phoenix Symphony presents the acclaimed
and unforgettable music of your favorite films. Join The Phoenix Symphony
to settle the decades long fan battle over which camp reigns supreme.
Audience members will vote live via text to decide the final number—will
the Force take over Symphony Hall again or will the Trekkies prosper from
this 2015 rematch? This concert is approximately 85 minutes long and runs
without an intermission.

Music of Harry Potter
MESA ARTS CENTER
February 2, 2018 | 7:30 pm
February 3, 2018 | 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
Join The Phoenix Symphony this February as the Hogwarts Express returns
to the Valley. Muggles, witches and wizards are welcome to attend this
magical annual tradition at Mesa Arts Center Ikeda Theater for this year’s
musical potion of memorable music from the Harry Potter film franchise.
Come dressed as your favorite Hogwarts character and get your tickets
early - this popular concert is sure to sell out!

www.phoenixsymphony.org