Houston, TX – June 20, 2025
Houston’s iconic Jones Hall became the backdrop for a captivating fusion of cinema and symphonic music this past weekend. The Houston Symphony, under the guidance of talented conductors, brought to life two of John Williams’s legendary film scores: the spine-tingling Jaws and the heartwarming Up. As part of a special weekend event, the performance transported audiences back to these beloved films, while showcasing the enduring power of live orchestral accompaniment.
The concert began with Jaws, arguably one of the most suspenseful and widely recognized film scores in history. As the chilling notes of the infamous shark motif filled the hall, audiences were immediately immersed in the tension that made Steven Spielberg’s 1975 thriller a cultural touchstone. The synergy between the film’s action and the orchestra’s performance was nothing short of mesmerizing. Reviewers noted the impeccable timing of the orchestra, particularly in scenes where the tension mounts beneath the water’s surface. Every rise in the strings seemed to mirror the looming presence of the great white shark, drawing gasps and sighs from the crowd.
Critics especially praised the clarity and precision of the string section during the shark-attack scenes. The sharp crescendos were felt almost physically by the audience, amplifying the terror that the film’s original soundtrack created. The orchestra’s ability to mimic the pulse-pounding suspense that made Jaws such a groundbreaking thriller was evident throughout, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience. Even as the tension built, the orchestra’s ability to convey raw emotion was evident, with each musical cue heightening the dramatic suspense that has captivated generations of moviegoers.
One of the most striking aspects of the performance was the timing between the orchestra and the film’s visual elements. The live score perfectly complemented the imagery, particularly the underwater sequences where the shark lurked in the depths. The musicians seemed to anticipate the film’s timing with precision, amplifying the thrill of each scene and adding a layer of urgency and danger that audiences in the original film release may not have felt in quite the same way.
The second half of the concert offered a much different experience, as the orchestra performed the score from Up, the heartwarming Pixar film from 2009. This segment presented a contrast to the tension-filled atmosphere of Jaws, offering audiences a tender, emotional journey through the music that accompanied Carl’s poignant adventure. Williams’s score here provided an entirely different kind of magic—one of nostalgia, adventure, and emotional depth. The soaring cello-led melodies captured the poignant essence of the film’s opening sequence, evoking tears as Carl’s memories of his late wife Ellie flooded the screen.
The music, which is filled with lighthearted and uplifting moments, perfectly matched the adventurous spirit of Up while also capturing the sadness and bittersweetness of Carl’s life. The orchestra’s ability to shift effortlessly between the joyful motifs and the more somber, reflective moments showcased their versatility and depth as performers. The rich, lyrical strings allowed for a more introspective atmosphere, drawing attention to the delicate balance between adventure and sorrow within the film’s narrative.
Critics noted that the emotional resonance of the music added layers to the film’s storyline. Even as Carl’s house took flight on a journey to Paradise Falls, the music reminded the audience of the deeper themes of love, loss, and remembrance. The cello’s poignant lead was especially impactful during the quieter, more intimate moments, proving just how well the orchestra could bring out the emotional undercurrents that Williams captured so beautifully in the score.
As the final notes of Up echoed throughout Jones Hall, the audience was on their feet, applauding not just the talent of the musicians but the ability of symphonic live scoring to revitalize and deepen the impact of a classic film. With the orchestra providing an additional layer of emotion, the cinematic experience was transformed, making familiar scenes feel fresh and exhilarating.
After the performance, the rapturous standing ovation from the audience was a testament to the symphony’s success in blending the worlds of film and live performance. This event was not just a concert; it was a celebration of how music, when performed live, can breathe new life into timeless stories. For Houston audiences, the evening was a reminder that symphonic scoring remains an art form that adds richness and depth to even the most iconic films.
The event concluded with the promise of more such musical showcases, leaving attendees eager for future performances that bridge the worlds of cinema and orchestral music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Jaws or Up, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of live music, the Houston Symphony’s performance at Jones Hall delivered an unforgettable experience that highlighted the enduring power of film music in a live setting.
In the end, this special event was a reminder of the timeless connection between cinema and symphonic music—a relationship that continues to captivate and inspire audiences. By pairing film with live orchestral performance, the Houston Symphony proved that the magic of music can elevate and deepen the impact of classic films, offering a new way to experience stories that have already left an indelible mark on pop culture.
