{:MetaTitleOverride}

The illustrious career of composer John Williams has taken us to a galaxy far, far away and captured our imagination beyond measure. Celebrate his birthday week with us as we take you on a journey through compositions you may find familiar and others that will be brand new to your ears.

Williams composed the soundtracks to some of the world’s most treasured films and is also well-known as a prolific composer for music beyond the borders of the silver screen. This evening showcases the profound effect these scores have on our listening experience. Concertmaster Yumi Hwang-Williams performs the “Three Pieces” from Schindler’s List, and additional soloists on the program include the Colorado Symphony’s own Principal Clarinet Jason Shafer performing “Viktor’s Tale” from The Terminal and Principal Trumpet Justin Bartels performing the Theme from J.F.K.

WILLIAMS Summon the Heros (1996 Summer Games in Atlanta)
WILLIAMS Theme from JFK
WILLIAMS "Viktor's Tale" from The Terminal
WILLIAMS Three Pieces from Schindler's List
WILLIAMS Soundings
WILLIAMS Olympic Fanfare and Theme (1984 Summer Games in L.A.)
WILLIAMS Selections from Star Wars
"Astroid Field"
"Luke and Leia"
"The Rebellion is Reborn"
WILLIAMS Happy Birthday Variations
WILLIAMS Selections from American Journey

The running time of this performance is approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. This includes one 20-minute intermission.

Stay up-to-date on performance details and join the event on Facebook. Be sure to click the "Interested" button!

Brett Mitchell, conductor
Justin Bartels, trumpet
Yumi Hwang-Williams, violin
Jason Shafer, clarinet

Boettcher Concert Hall is located in the Denver Performing Arts Complex at 14th and Curtis Streets in the heart of downtown Denver. It's easy to find and there are two large parking garages to the east and west of Boettcher. There are often multiple performances happening at DPAC at the same time, which leads to traffic congestion and lines to get into the parking garages. Be sure to leave plenty of time to get to DPAC—we don't want you to miss any of the music!

Find directions, a map, garage information, construction updates, and more here:

Transportation & Parking

Have questions about what to wear, when to clap, or if you can bring the kids? Check our Frequently Asked Questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you don’t see the answer to your question, feel free to contact Rob Warner, Colorado Symphony Concierge, by concierge@coloradosymphony.org, or call the Box Office at 303.623.7876.

John Williams: An American Journey
This weekend's performances feature a Prelude Workshops with Catherine Beeson. No Talkback is currently scheduled for this performance.

Preludes
Join Us Before Each Classics Performance!
Join your Colorado Symphony for preludes; pre-concert events to enhance your experience! Preludes take place at 6:30 p.m. (FRI & SAT) and 12 p.m. (SUN) in Boettcher Concert Hall, before every Classics performance, and are included with your concert ticket.

Prelude Lectures: Classical music author and historian Betsy Schwarm will share information about the composers and pieces on the program. Ms. Schwarm is a celebrated Denver icon. Catch her in action before hearing your Colorado Symphony!  

Prelude Musician Highlights: Ever wonder what your Colorado Symphony musicians think about the music? Come find out! Violist Phillip Stevens hosts an informal Q&A featuring additional Colorado Symphony musicians who are delighted to share their unique point of view on the composers and pieces you'll be hearing.  

Prelude Workshops: Be ready to participate! Take your mind, body, and spirit to a deeper listening plane with Catherine Beeson, Assistant Principal Violist and Director of Community Education Programs for your Colorado Symphony. Catherine will guide you to an internal understanding of the music you'll be hearing by encouraging your super powers of inquiry, observation and application.

Talkbacks*
Immediately following select Classics performances, enjoy a special 15-minute, post-concert discussion with the guest artist or conductor. Talkbacks take place in Boettcher Concert Hall and are included with your concert ticket.

*Subject to change, and to guest artist/conductor availability.