March 21 2015

source: (starwars.com)



John Williams is currently hard at work composing the score for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which will be recorded in Los Angeles. For the recording of the score, Williams will work with members of the superb freelance orchestra with which he’s recorded numerous film scores over the years. The music will be recorded over several months while working in tandem with the film’s editorial and special effects teams on the West Coast.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with the very best musicians in both the U.K. and the U.S.,” says Williams. “The London Symphony Orchestra has consistently performed with great artistry on all six of the prior films in the Star Wars saga, and I will be forever grateful for their commitment and dedication. Equally, it has been my honor to have worked with my brilliant colleagues in Los Angeles, and always appreciate the invaluable contribution they’ve made to my scores and to those of other composers.”


John Williams will be not be recording with the LSO this time. The music is being performed in LA with a freelance orchestra.

According to one report, Williams ain't too happy about that.

A freelance orchestra is not necessarily a bad thing. Many times it can mean members from various professional orchestras (LSO, LA Philharmonic, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, San Fran Symphony, etc.) are hired to perform or record a special project. The results can be wonderful.

Williams has not recorded outside of the US since Revenge of the Sith. There could be health reasons involved. He did have an issue recently where he cancelled performances.

I don't believe this will impact the quality of the score in any way. Minor shame the tradition was broken