‘You Still Got It!’: 90-Year-Old John Williams Stuns with Brahms Concerto Performance
Legendary composer and conductor John Williams, known for his iconic film scores, continues to amaze audiences and musicians alike—even at the age of 90. In a recent recording session, Williams casually performed passages from Brahms’ Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 77, proving that his musical prowess transcends composing and conducting.
A Moment to Remember
During a session primarily focused on recording his own orchestral works, Williams stunned the room when he took up the violin and played a section of the Brahms concerto with astonishing skill and clarity. The casual performance drew admiration from the ensemble and the recording crew, many of whom couldn’t help but exclaim, “You still got it!”
A Composer with Many Talents
Though Williams is celebrated for creating timeless scores for films like Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and Harry Potter, this moment served as a reminder of his roots as a trained musician. Before his rise to fame as a composer, Williams studied piano, composition, and conducting at institutions like Juilliard and UCLA. His ability to interpret classical repertoire with such fluency at 90 is a testament to his lifelong dedication to music.
A Fitting Choice of Repertoire
The Brahms Violin Concerto, with its rich melodies and technical demands, is a piece often reserved for virtuoso violinists. For Williams to play it effortlessly during a relaxed moment speaks volumes about his enduring artistry and intimate connection to classical music.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
This impromptu performance reminds the world of Williams’ unparalleled contributions to music, both in classical and cinematic spheres. As he continues to inspire new generations of musicians, moments like these reinforce the timeless nature of his talent.
John Williams’ casual brilliance is a testament to the fact that true artistry knows no age limits—proving yet again that he is nothing short of a living legend.