The Star Wars films are some of my favorite films of all time, and the ever expanding Star Wars universe is one of my favorite fictional places to retreat to for entertainment, comfort and escape through the many avenues of media that Lucas Arts and now Disney have delved into.
The epic, sweeping compositions by John Williams is a massive part of what makes the Saga so special for so many. The use of an orchestral soundtrack for a 70's Sci-Fi movie, as apposed to the ambient synthesizers and computer noises of other sci-fi films, instills wonder and awe, love, humor, tension, drama and excitement in the viewer. Williams excels at being thematic with his compositions, associating the most memorable of musical themes or light motifs to some of the worlds most memorable on screen performances. Then he went and did it again for 3 more films - and is going to be doing it again for the upcoming Force Awakens this December!
I was completely enamored then by the performance of the CBSO this evening, who were not only all excellent in their musicianship, but absolutely in sync with each other, and with conductor Michael Seal. After playing in orchestras and ensembles as a flutist all my life I'm always picky with the professionalism of performances. Even as a lowly teenager in my local music service's wind ensemble, it was strictly adhered to that we must always watch the conductor, and seeing this executed so eloqeuntly was a sight to behold; all bows moving in unison and instruments being raised at the correct times. Truly at one with the force, they were. Mrrhhmm.
The addition of the CBSO Chorus only increased my enjoyment, especially for my favourite piece of Star Wars music - The Dual Of The Fates. Of course, the encore was the terrifying Imperial March, and they even played the most reveered of pub soundtracks - The Cantina Band theme. The percussionists in particular were great fun to watch for this one. Furthermore, host Marc Silc (who plays a senator from Malastare amongst other TV characters) added some well fitting levity and introductions into the proceedings.