While Jurassic Park was in post-production, Steven Spielberg was already in Poland shooting Schindler’s List. This film was always very close to the director’s heart and when it picked up seven Oscars, including Best Director and Best Picture, it was clear Spielberg had achieved something very special. The story is of course a real one and generations live today thanks to Schindler’s efforts; Spielberg’s personal tribute to it has moved audiences ever since.
Williams searched deeply to find this music and his graceful, heartfelt reaction is now one of his most cherished compositions. In places, the larger score reflects the shadows of brutality and heartbreak, yet his Main Theme, awash with sentiment, sorrow and beauty, manages to uplift and sober in equal measure. Never was an Oscar – the composer’s fifth – more deserved.
Christian Siddall, 2nd Violin; image Andie Tong