Song of the Day #1912

Song of the Day: E.T. the Extra Terrestrial (“Soundtrack Suite”) [YouTube link], composed by John Williams, provides just a hint of the triumphant Oscar-winning score to this Steven Spielberg-directed classic that celebrates its fortieth anniversary this year. I had the privilege of seeing the finale of this film conducted by John Williams himself with the New York Philharmonic in 2007. (You can check out that finale at the Hollywood Bowl, with Williams conducting [YouTube link].) Ten years later, we saw the entire film, with the Philharmonic providing the score live at Lincoln Center. It was an exhilirating experience that left the audience in tears. Today, the great John Williams celebrates his 90th birthday. Long live the maestro! And we’ll have another Williams suite tomorrow!