Houston Symphony Pays Tribute to John Williams With 'Star Wars' Concert, 1/8

The Houston Symphony will give a respectful nod to film composer John Williams with its first concert of 2016, "Star Wars and More: A Tribute to John Williams," at 8 p.m.on January 8 and 9 and 7:30 p.m. on January 10. Known for composing some of the most recognizable soundtracks in cinematic history, Williams' iconic music from the Star Wars and Harry Potter franchises, as well as Steven Spielberg classics Jurassic Park, Jaws and E.T., will be brought to life in live orchestral performance.

During his extremely successful career, Williams has received numerous awards, including five Academy Awards, two Emmys, four Golden Globes and 18 Grammys. He has composed the music to all but two of Spielberg's feature films and conducted orchestras worldwide. Williams most recently composed the score for two blockbusters, Jurassic World and Star Wars: The Force Awakens. His scores for the original Star Wars trilogy transformed the landscape of Hollywood film music and became icons of American culture. Although he will not appear on this program, John Williams last appeared with the Houston Symphony alongside cellist Yo-Yo Ma in December 2013.

Special guests from the 501st Legion, Rebel Legion and Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club will make an appearance during the Star Wars portion of the program. These international costuming organizations bring together costume enthusiasts around the world through the creation and improvement of some of the most recognizable hero characters and culture of the Star Wars sagas. The groups also serve as a platform for enthusiasts to share their creativity and skills while also giving back to the community through charity work and volunteerism.

The concert will take place at Jones Hall for the Performing Arts, 615 Louisiana Street, in Houston's Theater District. For tickets and information, please call (713) 224-7575 or visit www.houstonsymphony.org. Tickets may also be purchased at the Houston Symphony Patron Services Center in Jones Hall (Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). All programs and artists are subject to change.